Setting up and Solving Equations

One Step Equations

Solving Two Step Equations

Solving Equations with Brackets

Setting up and Solving Equations

Prerequisite Knowledge

• use and interpret algebraic notation, including:
  • ab in place of a × b
  • 3y in place of y + y + y and 3 × y
  • a² in place of a × a, a³ in place of a × a × a; a²b in place of a × a × b
  • a/b in place of a ÷ b
  • coefficients written as fractions rather than decimals
• simplify and manipulate algebraic expressions to maintain equivalence by:
  • collecting like terms
  • taking out common factors

Key Concepts

• When solving equations students should use a scale to visualise how it remains balanced.
• A secure understanding of the order of operations and inverse operations is needed to keep an equation balanced.
• By solving the equation you find the value of the unknown number.
• When forming equations students often become confused with using brackets.
• An equation can have a positive or negative solution which could be presented as a simplified fraction rather than a decimal.

Working mathematically

Develop fluency

• Move freely between different numerical, algebraic, graphical and diagrammatic representations [for example, equivalent fractions, fractions and decimals, and equations and graphs]
• Develop algebraic and graphical fluency, including understanding linear and simple quadratic functions

Reason mathematically

• Identify variables and express relations between variables algebraically
• Make and test conjectures about patterns and relationships; look for proofs or counter-examples

Solve problems

• Begin to model situations mathematically and express the results using a range of formal mathematical representations

Subject Content

Algebra

• Understand and use the concepts and vocabulary of expressions, equations, inequalities, terms and factors
• Use algebraic methods to solve linear equations in one variable (including all forms that require rearrangement)