article
What's x got to do with it?
By following through the threads of algebraic thinking discussed in this article, we can ensure that children's mathematical experiences follow a continuous progression.
article
Making algebra rich
Lynne suggests activities which support the development of primary children's algebraic thinking.
problem
Ip dip
Age
5 to 11
Challenge level
"Ip dip sky blue! Who's 'it'? It's you!" Where would you position yourself so that you are 'it' if there are two players? Three players ...?
problem
Heads and feet
Age
5 to 7
Challenge level
On a farm there were some hens and sheep. Altogether there were 8 heads and 22 feet. How many hens were there?
problem
Super shapes
Age
7 to 11
Challenge level
The value of the circle changes in each of the following problems. Can you discover its value in each problem?
problem
Plenty of pens
Age
7 to 11
Challenge level
Amy's mum had given her £2.50 to spend. She bought four times as many pens as pencils and was given 40p change. How many of each did she buy?
problem
Shape times shape
Age
7 to 11
Challenge level
These eleven shapes each stand for a different number. Can you use the number sentences to work out what they are?
problem
Sticky triangles
Age
7 to 11
Challenge level
Can you continue this pattern of triangles and begin to predict how many sticks are used for each new "layer"?