Written by Elizabeth Hoover.

Mathematics is much more than numbers, formulas, and theories. It is a vital, fascinating part of our daily lives. Whether we’re hitting a grand slam, making chocolate chip cookies, or reading a science-fiction novel, math helps us understand and enjoy the world in which we live. 



The Tall Tale Math Series is a comprehensive resource that empowers students by helping them understand and utilize the fundamentals of mathematics. Highly creative story problems spark curiosity and help students appreciate math as a powerful tool for solving real-life questions. Grades 4–8.



In Part 2 of the series, Pre-Algebra, students will explore the fundamental principles of algebra, including equations, variables, algebraic expressions, and probabilities. 



Pre-Algebra is divided into three useful sections: 



Review Sheets contain easy-to-understand definitions and examples that clearly explain particular concepts, such as “Equations.” In addition to providing valuable practice exercises, the sheets can also serve as handy reference guides. 



Skill-Builder Sheets present intriguing story problems that use humor, creativity, and mystery to engage students. Each sheet covers a specific concept, which is clearly labeled at the top of the page.


Extra-Practice Sheets are designed to add an additional challenge for students who have mastered the previous sheets. In addition to the basic concepts, students must use additional skills, such as measurement conversion, chart analysis, and selection of the most appropriate number form. These sheets give teachers the extra flexibility to tailor lessons based on grade level and ability. 



Learning Objectives 

Pre-Algebra was designed to help instructors implement the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Curriculum and Evaluation Standards. Aimed at students in grades 5 through 8, the sheets will help students meet the following specific objectives: 

      • solving basic equations

      • identifying and working with variables

      • understanding and working with equations containing fractions

      • understanding and working with equations containing parentheses

      • understanding and working with equations containing negative and positive integers

      • writing algebraic expressions

      • writing equations to solve word problems

      • writing and solving equations with variables on both sides of the equal sign

      • using probability to solve equations

      • connecting math to the world outside the classroom

      • using investigation and reasoning to solve problems


Grades 5–8.


The lessons and activities in this book align with the following Common Core State Standards*: 

CCSS.Math.Content.5.OA.A,B. 

CCSS.Math.Content.6.EE.A,B,C 

CCSS.Math.Content.7.EE.A,B 

CCSS.Math.Content.8.EE.A,B,C 



Write and interpret numerical expressions. 

Analyze patterns and relationships. 

Apply and extend previous understandings of arithmetic to algebraic expressions. 

Reason about and solve one-variable equations and inequalities. 

Apply the properties of operations to generate equivalent expressions. 

Identify when two expressions are equivalent. 

Represent and analyze quantitative relationships between dependent and independent variables. 

Use properties of operations to generate equivalent expressions. 

Solve real-life and mathematical problems using numerical and algebraic expressions and equations. 

Understand the connections between proportional relationships, lines, and linear equations. 

Analyze and solve linear equations and pairs of simultaneous linear equations. 



*Authors: National Governors Association Center for Best Practices, Council of Chief State School Officers 

Title: Common Core State Standards English Language Arts 

Publisher: National Governors Association Center for Best Practices, Council of Chief State School Officers, Washington, D.C. 

Copyright Date: 2010