article
Getting the Balance Right
In this article for primary teachers, Ems shares some common misconceptions surrounding the equals sign, and suggests ways to help learners develop their understanding.
Introducing algebra
-
-
problemSpell by Numbers
Age7 to 11Challenge level
Can you substitute numbers for the letters in these sums? -
problemWeighing Scales
Age14 to 16Challenge level
Can you work out how many spheres will balance a single pyramid? -
problemFavouriteNumber Lines
Age5 to 7Challenge level
Leah and Tom each have a number line. Can you work out where their counters will land?
-
problemFavouriteHeads and Feet
Age5 to 7Challenge level
On a farm there were some hens and sheep. Altogether there were 8 heads and 22 feet. How many hens were there?
-
problemFavouriteSecret Number
Age5 to 7Challenge level
Annie and Ben are playing a game with a calculator. What was Annie's secret number?
-
problemFavouriteThe Brown Family
Age5 to 7Challenge level
Use the information about Sally and her brother to find out how many children there are in the Brown family.
-
articleMaking Algebra Rich
Lynne suggests activities which support the development of primary children's algebraic thinking.
-
problemFavouriteBreak It Up!
Age5 to 11Challenge level
In how many different ways can you break up a stick of seven interlocking cubes? Now try with a stick of eight cubes and a stick of six cubes. What do you notice?
-
problemSweetie Box
Age5 to 11Challenge level
Max and Bryony both have a box of sweets. What do you know about the number of sweets they each have?