The question asks that you use algebra tiles to model and solve the equation [tex]x+5=3x-1[/tex]. I set up the scenario digitally (see attached image).
Whatever blocks you have on both sides you can cancel. So we cancel one [tex]x[/tex]-block, and to take away the [tex]-1[/tex]-block, we balance the equation by putting a [tex]+1[/tex]-block on the other side. We are left with 2 [tex]x[/tex]-blocks equal to 6 [tex]+1[/tex]-blocks. This is equivalent to 1 [tex]x[/tex]-bock equal to 3 [tex]+1[/tex] blocks, so [tex]x=3[/tex].
Algebraically, you can write
[tex]x+5=3x-1 \\ 5=2x-1 \\ 6=2x \\ x=3[/tex].
I personally find the latter approach much easier, but I think the tiles are a nice way to conceptualize what you're doing.
