Year 8 - Maths
Solving simple linear equations with an additive step
Solving linear equations
Study Hub
Study Guides
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 solve a linear equation requiring a single additive step.
Key Notes
- An equation involving an additive step can be represented with a bar model.
- Using the bar model you can write all the arrangements of the equation with an additive step.
- One of the arrangements will give the solution to the equation.
- This can be written algebraically to find the solution.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Additive inverse: The additive inverse of a number is a number that, when added to the original number, gives the sum of 0
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- When solving x - 5 = 10 pupils may see the -5 and calculate 10 - 5 = 5
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
An equation involving an additive step can be represented with a bar model. Using the bar model you can write all the arrangements of the equation with an additive step.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Additive inverse'
The additive inverse of a number is a number that, when added to the original number, gives the sum of 0. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: When solving x - 5 = 10 pupils may see the -5 and calculate 10 - 5 = 5. Correction: Focus on understanding zero pairs and why adding the additive inverse gives the solution. Bar models are a helpful representation here.
More Lessons In This Unit
- Brackets in equations Study Guide
- Checking understanding of algebraic notation Study Guide
- Different types of equations Study Guide
- Equality in an equation 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 two step linear equations Study Guide
Browse all guides in the Year 8 Maths guide library.