Forming and solving equations
Term 1 starting in week 3 :: Estimated time: 2 weeks
- Solve one- and two-step equations and inequalities (review)
- Solve one- and two-step equations and inequalities with brackets (review)
- Inequalities with negative numbers
- Solve equations with unknowns on both sides
- Solve inequalities with unknowns on both sides
- Solving equations and inequalities in context
- Substituting into formulae and equations
- Rearrange formulae (one-step)
- Rearrange formulae (two-step)
For higher-attaining pupils:
- Rearrange complex formulae including brackets and squares
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Activities for pupils
Here are some related resources in alphabetical order. Some may only be appropriate for high-attaining learners while others will be useful for those in need of support. Click anywhere in the grey area to access the resource.
Algebra In Action Real life problems adapted from an old Mathematics textbook which can be solved using algebra.
Algebraic Fractions A mixture of algebraic fraction calculations and simplifications.
Algebraic Perimeters Questions about the perimeters and areas of polygons given as algebraic expressions.
BIDMAS A self marking exercise testing the application of BIDMAS, an acronym describing the order of operations used when evaluating expressions.
BIDMAS Video A reminder of the order of operations often referred to as BIDMAS, BODMAS or PEMDAS.
Changing The Subject Rearrange a formula in order to find a new subject in this self marking exercise.
Changing The Subject Video Otherwise known as rearranging the formula, this video shows how to change the subject of an equation.
Connecting Rules If you are given the values of x and y which of these equations is correct?
DiceGebra An online board game for two players evaluating algebraic equations and inequalities.
eQuation Generator An unlimited supply of linear equations just waiting to be solved. Project for the whole class to see then insert the working in your own style.
Equations A series of exercises, in increasing order of difficulty, requiring you to solve linear equations. The exercises are self marking.
Equations with Fractions Practise solving linear equations that contain fractions in this multi-level exercise.
Equations with Fractions Video If you have learnt how to solve linear equations the next step is to solve equations with fractions.
Formulae to Remember The traditional pairs or pelmanism game adapted to test recognition for formulae required to be memorised for GCSE exams.
Graph Plotter An online tool to draw, display and investigate graphs of many different kinds.
Inequalities Check that you know what inequality signs mean and how they are used to compare two quantities. Includes negative numbers, decimals, fractions and metric measures.
Linear Programming A selection of linear programming questions with an interactive graph plotting tool.
Missing Lengths Find the unknown lengths in the given diagrams and learn some algebra at the same time.
Missing Operations Exercise Each box represents a missing operation (add, subtract, multiply or divide). What are they?
Nevertheless Players decide where to place the cards to make an equation with the largest possible solution.
Old Equations Solve these linear equations that appeared in a book called A Graduated Series of Exercises in Elementary Algebra by Rev George Farncomb Wright published in 1857.
Stable Scales Ten balance puzzles to prepare you for solving equations.
Substitution Substitute the given values into the algebraic expressions. 
Substitution Examples A projectable set of animated examples to help prepare pupils to do the Substitution online exercise.
Substitution Video Lots of examples of substituting values into algebraic expressions. This video is to help you do the online, self-marking exercise.
Superfluous Find a strategy to figure out the values of the letters used in these calculations.
Click on a topic below for suggested lesson Starters, resources and activities from Transum.
Lesson Starters
Here are some suggestions for whole-class, projectable resources which can be used at the beginnings of each lesson in this block.
1st Lesson
Planet Numpair
The sum and product are given, can you find the two numbers?
2nd Lesson
Stable Scales
Solve these balance puzzles by taking the same away from both sides. An introduction to linear equations.
3rd Lesson
House Numbers
The numbers on five houses next to each other add up to 70. What are those five numbers?
4th Lesson
Polygon Riddle 1
Solve the riddle to find the name of the polygon then sum the interior angles.
5th Lesson
Same Same
A problem involving two people's ages which can be solved using algebra.
6th Lesson
Rabbits and Chickens
There are some rabbits and chickens in a field. Calculate how many of each given the number of heads and feet.
Some of the Starters above are to reinforce concepts learnt, others are to introduce new ideas while others are on unrelated topics designed for retrieval practice or and opportunity to develop problem-solving skills.
