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Efficient and Elegant Algebra

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In this feature students will have the opportunity to explore the properties of consecutive numbers, use algebra to justify their findings, and exploit the symmetries of equations in order to find efficient and elegant strategies.  We hope that students will enjoy discovering that algebra can be a versatile tool for solving a range of problems.

The last date for submitting solutions to the live problems is Monday 11th July.

You can watch a recording of the webinar in which we discussed the mathematical thinking which can be prompted by these activities.

 

A Change in Code
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A change in code

Age
14 to 16
Challenge level
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Can you find the percentage increase if the results appear in code?
Symmetricality
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Symmetricality

Age
14 to 18
Challenge level
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Five equations and five unknowns. Is there an easy way to find the unknown values?
Always Two
problem
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Always two

Age
14 to 18
Challenge level
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Find all the triples of numbers a, b, c such that each one of them plus the product of the other two is always 2.

Mega Quadratic Equations
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Mega quadratic equations

Age
14 to 18
Challenge level
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What do you get when you raise a quadratic to the power of a quadratic?
Agile Algebra
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Agile algebra

Age
16 to 18
Challenge level
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Observe symmetries and engage the power of substitution to solve complicated equations.

Overturning fracsum
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Overturning fracsum

Age
16 to 18
Challenge level
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Can you solve the system of equations to find the values of x, y and z?