Algebra - Find a Rule (One Step) - Worksheet

The "Find a Rule – One Step" worksheet is an engaging resource for Year 6 students to delve into the world of algebra and functions. The aim is to help students understand and use simple formulae, generate and describe linear number sequences, and express missing number problems algebraically. The worksheet includes a variety of activities where children explore one-step function machines, learning that a one-step function involves performing a single operation on an input to get an output. They are encouraged to think critically by working backwards to deduce the input from a given output and to identify the function based on sets of inputs and outputs.

The worksheet is thoughtfully designed with differentiated sheets to cater to varying levels of proficiency, from those just starting to work with functions to those ready for more complex calculations. Key vocabulary such as 'input', 'output', and 'function' is introduced, and the resource includes teaching slides for instructional support. Students are asked probing questions to deepen their understanding, such as "What do you think 'one-step function' means?" and "How many sets of inputs and outputs do you need to work out the function?". This approach not only reinforces their computational skills but also develops their reasoning and problem-solving abilities, laying a strong foundation for more advanced algebraic concepts.