Using algebra tiles to model expanding single brackets is really useful because learners can physically count out the required number of groups. There’s something fairly intuitive about brackets representing multiplication when you see the contents of the bracket represented as tiles rather than just algebraic terms. Introducing expanding brackets using algebra tiles So to start …
Expanding single brackets using algebra tiles Read More »
First published March 2015, last updated October 2022 By the time I teach linear equations, I’ve already used algebra tiles quite a lot with learners to create algebraic expressions. After working through one-step equations and ensuring learners understand the processes involved (rather than just solving “by eye”), I move on to simple two-step linear equations. If learners …
Solving linear equations using algebra tiles Read More »
Year 9 and I have been working on algebraic expressions this week, and the lesson I taught yesterday was successful enough to deserve a “Lesson of the Week” post. We did the Standards Unit card sort earlier in the week, which was far more successful than usual, possibly because I attempted to structure the activity far more …
LOTW – Expressions using algebra tiles Read More »
The teaching methods I use for solving equations have changed drastically over my (relatively short) career so far, so here’s a post about my journey so far and current “tried and tested” ideas. 1. Why animal algebra doesn’t workOne very clear memory I have of my time at school is the first term of work …
Teaching solving equations Read More »
I usually start work on factorising algebraic expressions with a critical look at what factorising actually is and a few reminders of prior learning about factors. I pop up this diagram when pupils enter the classroom, and get them to think about what it is showing. We then have a discussion and collect ideas. The slide represents …
Factorising linear expressions using algebra tiles Read More »
This was the first lesson I taught using algebra tiles (you can find out about them here) and it’s my go-to way to introduce completing the square now. It’s worth starting with a little work on factorising first, just so you don’t completely blow their minds. I start the lesson by considering representations of perfect …
Completing the square using algebra tiles Read More »
How I discovered algebra tiles I discovered algebra tiles last year when, in a fit of desperation, I took to the Internet to find a good way of teaching completing the square in a way that might actually get it to stick in the heads of my Year 11s. I’d previously completely failed and confused …
Why algebra tiles are the most amazing thing, like, ever Read More »