Introduction to Algebra — Year 6 Lesson Plan
National Curriculum: Mathematics — Algebra: use simple formulae, generate and describe linear number sequences (Year 6)
Overview
Pupils are introduced to algebraic thinking: using letters to represent unknown values, forming and solving simple equations, and expressing mathematical relationships as formulae. They connect algebra to number patterns they already know, making the abstract more concrete.
Learning Objectives
- Use a letter to represent an unknown value in a simple equation.
- Form and solve one-step and two-step equations.
- Enumerate possibilities of combinations of two variables.
- Express missing-number problems algebraically.
Key Vocabulary
Suggested Lesson Structure
Present a classic missing-number problem: □ + 7 = 15. Ask: how did you work this out? Now write it as: a + 7 = 15. Establish that 'a' is just a name for the missing number.
Model forming equations from word problems. Solve simple one-step equations by inverse operations. Introduce two-step equations: 3n + 4 = 19 → 3n = 15 → n = 5. Show how to substitute back to check. Introduce formulae: the perimeter of a rectangle as P = 2(l + w).
Pupils form equations from word problems, solve them, and check by substitution. Include a mix of addition, subtraction, and multiplication equations.
Pupils solve a set of equations, enumerate possibilities for two variables (e.g. a + b = 10 where a and b are whole numbers), and apply a formula to find unknown values.
Is n = 4 a solution to 2n + 3 = 11? How do you know? Pupils substitute and check. Discuss: why is algebra useful if we can just use a box or a question mark?
Common Misconceptions
- Treating the variable as always standing for 1 or as a label rather than an unknown value.
- Confusing expressions and equations — stress that an equation has an equals sign and a specific solution; an expression does not.
Prior Knowledge
Pupils should already be able to:
- Fluency in arithmetic operations.
- Experience with missing-number problems.
- Understanding of inverse operations.
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