Algebra is a way of thinking about numbers that has been used for thousands of years. Algebra helps to solve maths problems where you do not know all the numbers involved. You can use a letter to stand in for that number instead.
Algebra is used in lots of modern technologies, such as facial recognition and search engines!
Teach your children about algebra using our handy topic guide!
Teaching Ideas
- This post has some very useful ideas for practical ways to approach the teaching of algebra.
- This Find the Number activity sheet is a great way to get children thinking about algebra skills.
- Our What is Y? sheets give a huge number of practice equations for children to use.
- Print this Simplification Switch game to develop understanding of simplification.
- Our Evaluate the Expression sheets vary in difficulty and require children to solve equations when given an amount for a variable.
- This post includes an innovative way to use Lego bricks to represent algebraic equations.
Resources
- Download our huge Algebra Pack for all the resources you need to teach algebra!
- This Oak National Academy lesson focusses on expressing missing numbers algebraically.
- The IXL Algebra page has lots of activities for learning algebra, organised by UK school year, that children can work through independently.
Algebra Facts
- The word “algebra” comes for the Arabic “al-jabr” which means putting broken parts back together.
- A variable is used in an algebraic equation to represent an unknown quantity. Variables are represented by letters.
- The ancient Babylonians used a form of algebra.
Videos
An introduction to algebra | Maths – Kick Sum Maths
An engaging introduction to algebra looking at solving equations by using the inverse operation.
Running time: 5:41
Introduction to Algebra Key Stage 2
A great video for revising algebra.
Running time: 11:33
Writing Algebraic Equations
This short video shows a useful example of real-life use of algebra.
Running time: 1:57
Books
One Is a Snail, Ten Is a Crab
This picture book has lots of opportunities for discussing algebraic ideas with younger children.
KS2 Maths SAT Buster 10-Minute Tests - Algebra
12 bite-sized algebra tests for older primary children.
KS2 Algebra Workbook
A workbook covering all the algebra content for primary children.
Links
- Visit the BBC Bitesize Algebra pages for learner guides.
- Evaluate algebraic expressions to win the race in this car game.
- Try some of the printable algebra games on this Math Salamanders page.
- Guide your tank through a minefield by correctly solving algebraic equations.
Are you teaching your children about other topics? Explore our full collection of guides!
