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The Stacked Equation block creates mathematical equations and multi-step calculations that span multiple lines. Perfect for showing working out, step-by-step solutions, and aligned mathematical procedures. This is a display block for teaching mathematical procedures and showing worked examples. It formats equations with proper alignment and spacing to make mathematical working clear and easy to follow.
For assessable equation solving where learners need to enter answers, use equation-based question blocks instead.

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When to use Stacked Equation blocks

Stacked Equation blocks work well for:
  • Showing step-by-step calculation procedures
  • Displaying multi-line mathematical working
  • Teaching vertical addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division algorithms
  • Demonstrating algebraic manipulation steps
  • Creating reference examples for mathematical procedures
  • Showing how to solve word problems systematically

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Settings

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Equations

Build your mathematical display using the equation editor:
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Equations
internal
Interactive equation builder where you can add numbers, operators (+, -, ×, ÷), and equals signs to create your mathematical display. Click to edit each element.

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Formatting options

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Alignment
select
default:"equals"
How the equations are aligned:
  • Align equals: All equals signs line up vertically (standard for working out)
  • Left: All equations align to the left margin
  • Right: All equations align to the right margin
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Spacing
select
default:"medium"
The amount of space between equation lines:
  • Small: Tight spacing for compact display
  • Medium: Standard spacing for readability
  • Large: Generous spacing for emphasis or larger fonts
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Show step numbers
switch
default:"false"
When enabled, displays step numbers (1, 2, 3…) at the beginning of each equation line.
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Font size
select
default:"medium"
The size of the mathematical text:
  • Small: Compact text for detailed working
  • Medium: Standard readable size
  • Large: Emphasis or board-style display
  • Extra large: Maximum size for presentations or young learners

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Tips for teachers and parents

Best practices:
  • Use “Align equals” for traditional mathematical working out
  • Keep equations clean and uncluttered for maximum clarity
  • Use consistent formatting throughout your resources
  • Consider your audience when choosing font size
  • Show complete steps rather than skipping logical progression
  • Use appropriate mathematical notation for the grade level
Creating effective mathematical displays: For arithmetic procedures: 
Step 1:  245 + 137 = ?
Step 2:  200 + 100 = 300
Step 3:   40 +  30 =  70
Step 4:    5 +   7 =  12
Step 5:  300 + 70 + 12 = 382
For algebraic working: 
3x + 7 = 22
3x = 22 - 7
3x = 15
x = 15 ÷ 3
x = 5
For fraction calculations: 
1/2 + 1/4 = ?
2/4 + 1/4 = ?
3/4
Teaching strategies: For step-by-step solutions:
  • Show every logical step in the working
  • Use consistent notation and symbols
  • Highlight key transformations or operations
  • Enable step numbers to make the sequence clear
  • Connect each line to the previous one logically
For demonstration and modeling:
  • Use larger font sizes for whole-class instruction
  • Choose spacing that works with your display method
  • Keep equations visible throughout the lesson
  • Use as reference while teaching the procedure
  • Point to specific lines when explaining each step
For different mathematical topics: Arithmetic operations:
  • Show borrowing and carrying in vertical algorithms
  • Break down complex calculations into simpler steps
  • Demonstrate mental math strategies visually
  • Connect to number sense and estimation
Algebra:
  • Show equation solving procedures step by step
  • Demonstrate inverse operations clearly
  • Highlight like terms and simplification steps
  • Use consistent variable notation
Fractions and decimals:
  • Show conversion steps between forms
  • Demonstrate common denominator procedures
  • Break down complex fraction operations
  • Connect to visual fraction models
Word problems:
  • Show the mathematical translation process
  • Break down multi-step problems systematically
  • Display the calculation sequence clearly
  • Connect back to the original question
Accessibility and design:
  • Choose colors and fonts that work for all learners
  • Ensure sufficient contrast for visibility
  • Test readability on different devices and screen sizes
  • Consider printing requirements if resources will be printed
  • Use standard mathematical notation that learners recognize
Extensions and connections:
  • Link to hands-on manipulative activities
  • Connect to real-world problem-solving contexts
  • Use as worked examples before independent practice
  • Reference during problem-solving instruction
  • Create anchor charts and reference materials