> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://help.edzo.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Stacked Equation

> Learn how to use Stacked Equation blocks to display multi-line mathematical calculations and working.

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.

<Info>
  For assessable equation solving where learners need to enter answers, use equation-based question blocks instead.
</Info>

## 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

## Settings

### Equations

Build your mathematical display using the equation editor:

<ParamField path="Equations" type="internal">
  Interactive equation builder where you can add numbers, operators (+, -, ×, ÷), and equals signs to create your mathematical display. Click to edit each element.
</ParamField>

### Formatting options

<ParamField path="Alignment" default="equals" type="select">
  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
</ParamField>

<ParamField path="Spacing" default="medium" type="select">
  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
</ParamField>

<ParamField path="Show step numbers" default="false" type="switch">
  When enabled, displays step numbers (1, 2, 3...) at the beginning of each equation line.
</ParamField>

<ParamField path="Font size" default="medium" type="select">
  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
</ParamField>

## 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

## Related blocks

* [Equation Question](/creating/resources/question-blocks/equation-question). Assessable version where learners solve equations
* [Number Frame](/creating/resources/learning-blocks/number-frame). Visual manipulative for number calculations
* [Balance Scales](/creating/resources/learning-blocks/balance-scales). For equation balance and equality concepts