Using simple formulae worksheet

In a series of engaging activities designed to help children grasp the concept of using simple formulae, Activity 1 introduces the calculation of perimeter using rectangles. Students are provided with rectangles of various dimensions and apply the formula P = 2L + 2W, where P stands for Perimeter, L for Length, and W for Width. After calculating the perimeter, they exchange their work with classmates to verify each other's calculations, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Subsequent activities delve deeper into the world of algebra and simple formulae. Activity 2 uses 'Think of a Number' puzzles to create simple algebraic expressions, initially using concrete manipulatives like cubes to represent the problems, and then progressing to writing the expressions algebraically. For instance, the puzzle "I think of a number and subtract 5 from it; the answer is 12" is first modelled with cubes and then expressed as x - 5 = 12. More complex two-step puzzles are also introduced to extend learning. Meanwhile, Activity 3 has students solve simple equations, exchange their work for peer review, and then challenge themselves by creating new equations that yield the same solution as the original. In Activity 4, children combine single digit cards, lower case letter cards, and mathematical symbol cards to form and solve their own equations, experimenting with different values for the variables. Finally, Activity 5 encourages students to apply various formulae using a whiteboard and pens, with set values for variables a, b, and c, as well as the opportunity to choose their own values to understand the impact on the formula's outcome. Each activity is underpinned by the objective to use simple formulae, reinforcing the practical application of mathematics in problem-solving scenarios.