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Year 6 - Maths

Use knowledge of balancing equations to solve problems

Calculating using knowledge of equivalence in addition and subtraction

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 use knowledge of balancing equations to solve problems.

Key Notes

  • Knowledge of addition and subtraction can be used to solve problems involving comparing balancing expressions.
  • Expressions can be formed from data in tables and graphs, and used to make comparisons.
  • Expressions can be formed from data presented in tables and graphs and can be used to make comparisons.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • Expression: An expression contains one or more terms or numbers, where each term or number is separated by an operator but an expression does not have an equals sign.

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Difference can represent a rise or fall in values so the calculation can have a positive or negative answer. Difference as change is always expressed as a positive value.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

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

Knowledge of addition and subtraction can be used to solve problems involving comparing balancing expressions. Expressions can be formed from data in tables and graphs, and used to make comparisons.

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

An expression contains one or more terms or numbers, where each term or number is separated by an operator but an expression does not have an equals sign. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.

3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.

Mistake: Difference can represent a rise or fall in values so the calculation can have a positive or negative answer. Difference as change is always expressed as a positive value. Correction: Focus on finding equivalent changes in the data presented and ensure that pupils see that the change is a positive value that can be qualified with describing it as a rise or a fall, depending on the situation.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 6 Maths guide library.