> ## 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.

# Balance Scales Question Block

> Learn how to use Balance Scales Question blocks to create interactive comparison and measurement activities.

The **Balance Scales Question** block creates interactive activities where learners use balance scales to compare values, read measurements, or find target amounts. Learners interact with the scales by adjusting values to answer the question.

Great for building comparison, equality, and early algebra skills.

<Info>
  Balance Scales Questions support multiple answer modes including balancing the scales, comparing values, reading a value, and reaching a target.
</Info>

## When to use Balance Scales Questions

Balance Scales Questions work well for:

* Comparing two values (greater than, less than, equal to)
* Finding the value that balances both sides
* Reading a measurement from one side of the scales
* Reaching a specific target value
* Building early algebra and equation-solving skills

## Settings

### Value settings

<ParamField path="Left value" default="4" type="input">
  The starting value on the left side of the scales.
</ParamField>

<ParamField path="Right value" default="6" type="input">
  The starting value on the right side of the scales.
</ParamField>

<ParamField path="Minimum value" default="0" type="input">
  The lowest value a learner can set on the scales.
</ParamField>

<ParamField path="Maximum value" default="20" type="input">
  The highest value a learner can set on the scales.
</ParamField>

<ParamField path="Step" default="1" type="input">
  The increment by which learners can adjust values.
</ParamField>

### Display settings

<ParamField path="Show values" default="true" type="switch">
  When enabled, displays the numeric values on each side of the scales.
</ParamField>

<ParamField path="Size" default="Medium" type="select">
  The display size of the scales:

  * **Small**: Compact display
  * **Medium**: Standard display
  * **Large**: Larger display for projection or emphasis
</ParamField>

<ParamField path="Tilt sensitivity" default="1" type="slider">
  Controls how dramatically the scales tilt based on the difference between values (0.2 to 2).
</ParamField>

## Answer and marking

Set the correct answer using one of four modes:

* **Balance**: The learner must make both sides equal
* **Compare**: The learner must identify which side is greater or if they are equal (less than, equal, greater than)
* **Read**: The learner must read and enter the value shown on one side
* **Target**: The learner must adjust one side to reach a specific value

You can also set a tolerance value for answers that allow a range of acceptable responses.

## Response settings

<ParamField path="Response requirement" default="Correct" type="select">
  Determines when the question is considered complete:

  * **Correct**: The learner must answer correctly to proceed.
  * **Answered**: Any response is accepted; correctness isn't required.
  * **Optional**: The learner can skip the question entirely.
</ParamField>

<ParamField path="Max responses" default="0" type="slider">
  The number of attempts the learner can make before the question is locked (0–3). Set to **0** for unlimited attempts.
</ParamField>

<ParamField path="XP points" default="5" type="slider">
  The experience points awarded for answering the question correctly (0–10).
</ParamField>

## Tips for teachers and parents

**Best practices:**

* Use **Balance** mode for early algebra readiness activities
* Start with **Show values** enabled, then turn it off for more challenging estimation activities
* Use small step values (like 1) for younger learners and larger steps for older learners
* **Compare** mode works well for reinforcing inequality symbols
* Pair with Balance Scales display blocks to model the concept before assessing

## Related blocks

* [Balance Scales](/creating/resources/learning-blocks/balance-scales): Display-only version for teaching and demonstration