Formulae and Kinematics

Writing Formulae

Substitution into Formulae

Kinematics Formulae

Rearranging Formulae

Prerequisite Knowledge

• solve linear equations in one unknown algebraically (including those with the unknown on both sides of the equation
• translate simple situations or procedures into algebraic expressions
• deduce expressions to calculate the nth term of linear sequence

Success Criteria

• substitute numerical values into formulae and expressions, including scientific formulae
• understand and use the concepts and vocabulary of expressions, equations, formulae, identities inequalities, terms and factors
• understand and use standard mathematical formulae; rearrange formulae to change the subject
• know the difference between an equation and an identity; argue mathematically to show algebraic expressions are equivalent, and use algebra to support and construct arguments

Key Concepts

• When substituting known values into formulae it is important to follow the order of operations.
• Students need to have a secure understanding of using the balance method when rearranging formulae. Recap inverse operations, e.g., x² => √x
• When generating formulae it is important to associate mathematical operations and their algebraic notation with key words.

Common Misconceptions

• Students often consider to be incorrectly calculated as 2a³ as (2a)³. Recap the order of operations to avoid this.
• Students often have difficult generating formulae from real life contexts. Encourage them to carefully break down the written descriptions to identify key words.