Students often meet the equals sign as a signal that the answer comes next. A pan balance model changes the conversation because both sides have to hold the same value.
The Daily Maths Review pan balance tool lets teachers add 1, 5, 10, 20 or 50 to either side, compare totals, show the difference, balance the smaller side, randomise examples, swap sides and clear the board. It is a modelling tool rather than a scored practice app.
Start with unequal sides
Build two different totals before asking for any written equation. Students can name which side has more, read the comparison symbol and explain how much is needed to balance the pans.
- Add values to the left and right pans while students track each total.
- Ask students to read the comparison, such as 15 is greater than 10.
- Ask how much more the smaller side needs before pressing balance.
- Swap the sides to connect the same comparison to the inverse statement.
Use the balance button after prediction
The balance button is most useful after students have predicted the missing amount. Let them reason from the totals first, then use the tool to confirm the difference visually.
Build 20 + 5 on the left and 10 + 5 on the right. Ask for the comparison, the difference and the missing value, then press balance and read the equal totals.
Move from model to equation
Once the pans are equal, write the equation beside the model. If students still need concrete quantities, move to the counters tool first, then return to the pan balance to focus on the two sides.