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Year 10 - Maths

Problem solving with surds

Surds

Unit Summary

In this unit pupils will learn how to recognise surds, handle them in calculations and rationalise fractions with surds as denominators.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to use your knowledge of surds to solve problems.

Key Notes

  • Surds are a useful format to leave an answer as.
  • Surds can help with the accuracy of future calculations.
  • Surds can be seen in many areas of maths.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Surd: A surd is an irrational number expressed as the root of a rational number.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Pupils may be uncertain how to solve problems with surds.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.

Surds are a useful format to leave an answer as. Surds can help with the accuracy of future calculations.

2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Surd'

A surd is an irrational number expressed as the root of a rational number. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.

3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.

Mistake: Pupils may be uncertain how to solve problems with surds. Correction: Many problems can be solved through reasoning what you know, such as fully simplifying a surd.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 10 Maths guide library.