Learn algebra step by step
Learn algebra in 10 levels, from expressions to solving equations, inequalities and systems, with a 5-question test for each level.
🧒 Kids: tap Start level ▶ and get 4 of 5 right to pass. Can you reach level 10? 🏆
Which level for which grade?
There are 10 levels, from the parts of an expression to systems of equations. Each level has short lessons and a 5-question test; get 4 right to pass. Progress is saved on this device, so your child can come back and carry on.
| Level | Skill | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Parts of an expression | 6 |
| 2 | Writing expressions | 6 |
| 3 | Evaluating expressions | 6 |
| 4 | Like terms and brackets | 6–7 |
| 5 | One-step equations | 6 |
| 6 | Two-step equations | 7 |
| 7 | Fractions and decimals | 7 |
| 8 | Multi-step and both sides | 7–8 |
| 9 | Inequalities | 6–7 |
| 10 | Systems and stories | 8 |
How to use the levels
- Find the starting level. Take the tests from level 1 until your child scores under 4. That is the level to work on.
- Learn it. Open the Learn links for that level: each lesson has pictures, a parent script and practice.
- Practice for a few days. Use the quizzes on the lesson pages and the equation practice tool.
- Retake the test. 4 out of 5 passes the level. Move on to the next one.
Level 5, one-step equations, is the one to take slowly. Every later level is built from the same idea: do the same to both sides.
Why the levels are in this order
Each level uses the one before it. Levels 1 to 3 teach the language of algebra: terms, variables and expressions, and how to find their value.
Level 4 teaches how to tidy expressions, which every multi-step equation needs. Levels 5 and 6 solve one-step and two-step equations, and level 7 adds fractions and decimals.
The last three levels put everything to work: brackets and x on both sides, inequalities and systems. A child stuck at a high level usually has a gap lower down, very often level 4 or 5.
Tools that help with every level
The balance scale shows why you must do the same to both sides, which helps with levels 5 to 8. The equation solver shows every step for any linear equation, so children can check their own working.
Confident integer and fraction skills matter too. If negative numbers trip your child up, spend a week on the integer practice tool before levels 6 to 9.
More equation practice
- Equations quiz for grades 6 to 8.
- Equation practice by skill.
- Equation solver with steps.
- Printable equation worksheets.
For teachers
The levels work on a projector for a whole-class warm-up. Progress is saved only in each device’s browser, so no login or student data is needed. On shared computers, use Reset my progress at the end of the lesson.
Practice questions (answers below)
Ask these out loud or write them down. Check each answer, and ask “how did you get that?” for one or two.
- Level 1: the constant in 5x + 8
- Level 2: 3 more than a number
- Level 3: 2y + 1 when y = 7
- Level 4: 3(x + 2) + x
- Level 5: x − 6 = 11
- Level 6: 4x + 1 = 21
- Level 7: x/5 = 3
- Level 8: 5x − 3 = 2x + 9
- Level 9: 2x > 14
- Level 10: x + y = 7, x − y = 1
Show the answers
- 8
- n + 3
- 15
- 4x + 6
- 17
- 5
- 15
- 4
- x > 7
- x = 4, y = 3
Common mistakes
How to teach it at home
Level chart
Print a chart of 10 boxes and colour one each time a level is passed.
Celebrate
A small reward at levels 5 and 10.
Number riddles
“I think of a number…” riddles make any equation level easier.
By grade
Check every topic at once
The free math check-up tests every topic of one grade in 10 to 20 minutes. It shows which topics are solid and where to start practicing. Levels you pass here also appear on your progress page.
More for each grade: Grade 6 math and the CBSE class 6 maths guide; Grade 7 math and the CBSE class 7 maths guide; Grade 8 math and the CBSE class 8 maths guide.
Worksheets and practice
Solving equations worksheet: printable PDF with an answer key. · Make a fresh test
Last reviewed
Questions parents ask
How do you learn algebra step by step?
Start with variables and expressions, then evaluating and simplifying. Next come one-step and two-step equations, then fractions, x on both sides, inequalities and systems.
What is the hardest part of learning algebra?
Usually keeping both sides balanced and getting signs right with negatives. Levels 5 to 8 focus on these.
How long does it take to learn equations?
Equations are spread over grades 6 to 8. Most children move through three or four levels a year with short daily practice.
Is progress saved?
Yes, passed levels are saved in this browser on this device. Nothing is sent to us.
Should my child know integers before equations?
For levels 6 to 10, yes. Two-step equations and inequalities often have negative numbers in them.