Algebra - Vocabulary

In algebra, a branch of mathematics that deals with symbols and the rules for manipulating those symbols, various concepts are introduced to Year 6 students. One of these concepts is the missing number problem, which can be expressed algebraically. For instance, the problem "What number has fourteen subtracted from it to make twenty-three?" is represented as n – 14 = 23. Students are also taught about linear number sequences, where they learn to generate and describe patterns using a formula. For example, in a sequence like 4, 7, 10, 13, the first term is 4 and the step is 3, leading to the nth term formula of 3n + 1.

Another key area covered is the use of simple formulae. A formula is a rule written with mathematical symbols, such as the formula for finding the area of a rectangle, which is Area = width × height. Students explore how to enumerate possibilities of combinations of two variables, often represented by x and y. For example, they might find pairs of numbers that satisfy the equation x + y = 31. The concept of functions is also introduced, described as a special relationship or rule that acts like a machine with inputs and outputs. For instance, a function machine might multiply an input by 5 to produce an output. The curriculum also covers equations, including one-step and two-step equations. An equation states that two expressions are equal, such as y – 5 = 15, and solving it involves finding the value of the unknown variable. Algebraic expressions, which are mathematical phrases containing numbers, variables, and operators, are fundamental to understanding algebra. These concepts form the basis for the Year 6 Algebra Vocabulary Assessment.