Algebra - Find pairs of values (2) (Enumerate possibilities) - Planning

The Year 6 algebra lesson plan for the second week of Spring term focuses on finding pairs of values that satisfy equations, a skill known as enumerating possibilities. The lesson begins with a recap of previous learning before moving on to specific activities designed to deepen the students' understanding. In the first activity, students explore the equation 3m = c, where m and c are whole numbers less than 12. They use a systematic approach, starting with m = 1, and list all possible solutions that adhere to the equation's conditions. The second activity introduces a new equation, 5x + 3 = y, and encourages students to choose values for x to find corresponding y values, recording their findings in a table and discussing various strategies. The third activity challenges students to find all possible values for m and c that satisfy the equation 2m + c = 41, using bar models to visualize their solutions and discussing systematic methods for enumeration.

During the lesson, students work in groups to complete reasoning tasks from the teaching slides and engage in independent learning with differentiated worksheets. Key questions prompt them to explore the meaning of algebraic expressions like 2a and strategies for finding variable values. The lesson also addresses common misconceptions and encourages a methodical approach to finding solutions. The session concludes with a reflective 'Give me five' activity, where students consider what they've learned, the skills they've used, and how to apply these in future problem-solving scenarios. Depending on their level of understanding, students work towards fluency in finding pairs of numbers to satisfy equations, with more advanced students investigating whether missing values in equations are always odd or even and using algebra to solve word problems. The lesson plan includes visual representations to aid comprehension and ensure students develop a solid grasp of algebraic concepts.