Year 8 - Maths
Equality in an equation
Solving linear equations
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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 learn how to find a value that satisfies a linear relationship when one value is known both with a single step operation, and multiple step operations. A variety of cases are explored including using brackets and rearranging.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to appreciate that in an equation the two sides of the equals sign balance.
Key Notes
- The equals sign means that the two sides of the equation have the same value.
- This can be described as the expressions balancing.
- The equality of the expressions can be represented with a bar model.
- It is possible to rearrange equations to find the family of alternative versions of the equation.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Equation: An equation is used to show two expressions that are equal to each other.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- 10 - x = 2 means that 2 - x = 10
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
The equals sign means that the two sides of the equation have the same value. This can be described as the expressions balancing.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Equation'
An equation is used to show two expressions that are equal to each other. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: 10 - x = 2 means that 2 - x = 10. Correction: Using bar models can help pupils understand rearranging additive relationships at an early stage.
More Lessons In This Unit
- Brackets in equations Study Guide
- Checking understanding of algebraic notation Study Guide
- Different types of equations Study Guide
- Many equations, one solution Study Guide
- Preparing to solve two step linear equations Study Guide
- Problem solving with linear equations Study Guide
- Rearranging to solve linear equations Study Guide
- Securing understanding of equality Study Guide
- Solution to an equation Study Guide
- Solving complex linear equations Study Guide
- Solving complex linear equations involving brackets Study Guide
- Solving linear equations graphically using technology Study Guide
- Solving linear equations where brackets are used Study Guide
- Solving simple linear equations with a multiplicative step Study Guide
- Solving simple linear equations with an additive step Study Guide
- Solving two step linear equations Study Guide
Browse all guides in the Year 8 Maths guide library.