Linear Equations

Subject(s): Mathematics | Age: 11-14 | 14-16 | Type: Interactive resource | Publication Year: 2000 - 2009

This linear equation calculator from Subtangent allows students to target specific types of equations to solve, ranging from basic questions such as x+5=7 to those which have the unknown on both sides and negative coefficients.

Once a type of equation is selected, the calculator generates a specific equation and the student is required to enter the next step to solve the equation into the calculator, before pressing the do it button. This process is repeated until the solution is arrived at.

URL: http://stem.org.uk/rxns

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Files

Flash, Category Three Materials

Linear equations

Review

interactive

Posted by jpowell on 26th November 2011

Activity time: 30 mins
Level / prior knowledge: 4-6/idea of a letter…

Activity time: 30 mins
Level / prior knowledge: 4-6/idea of a letter as an unknown
Subject / curriculum links / skills: Maths/Algebra/solving equations
Preparation time: None
Extra resources: Laptops or computer room
Commentary:
I find pupils often struggle with writing down formal methods for solving equations as they can often spot what the answer is and don't see why they should write down the steps. I explain to the pupils that for harder equations they wont be able to spot the answer and they will need these methods, which we will build up starting with some easier equations. This flash application allows pupils to experiment with applying an operation to both sides of an equation without having to do the calculation themselves. It allows them to experience what happens to an equation under various different operations including incorrect ones. I allow pupils time to play with this application first before moving on to solving equations with pen and paper.