Step 5 Objective

Construct and solve linear equations with positive integer coefficients (unknown on one side only) using appropriate methods

Examples of what pupils should know and be able to do

Construct equations derived from statements such as 'I think of a number...'

Probing questions

Give pupils a list of linear equations as described in the objective, ask:

Which of these are easy to solve? Which are difficult and why?

What if pupils find this a barrier?

5a + 12 = 27

Ask pupils to explain why the solution to this equation is a = 3.

Ask pupils to construct a different equation with the same solution.

How did you go about it?