Year 6 - Maths
Explain how to balance equations with addition or subtraction expressions
Calculating using knowledge of equivalence in addition and subtraction
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit pupils will explain how to balance equations with addition or subtraction expressions and use their knowledge of balancing equations to solve problems.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to explain how to balance equations with addition or subtraction expressions in different contexts.
Key Notes
- If one addend is increased and the other is decreased by the same amount, the sum stays the same.
- If the minuend and subtrahend are changed by the same amount, the difference stays the same.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Peimeter: The perimeter is the distance around a 2D shape.
- Expression: An expression contains one or more values, where each value is separated by an operator.
- Area: Area is the measurement of a flat surface. It measures 2D space.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Pupils are inefficient when calculating the perimeter of a rectangle or do not recognise why more efficient strategies (summing length and width and doubling) works.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
If one addend is increased and the other is decreased by the same amount, the sum stays the same. If the minuend and subtrahend are changed by the same amount, the difference stays the same.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Peimeter'
The perimeter is the distance around a 2D shape. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: Pupils are inefficient when calculating the perimeter of a rectangle or do not recognise why more efficient strategies (summing length and width and doubling) works. Correction: Encourage pupils to see the efficient calculation and connection with smaller integers to support the generalisation before progressing to values in the lesson. Consider adapting values for some learners where required.
More Lessons In This Unit
Browse all guides in the Year 6 Maths guide library.