An Introduction to Basic Linear Equations (Algebra) Prompt Sheets

A set of simple written prompt sheets I created, taking pupils step by step through some of the processes required to solve basic linear equations when engaging with algebra for the first time. Also included is a worksheet using a ‘balance scale’ analogy I used to use when first introducing the topic, to make sense of the approach of ‘doing the same thing to both sides’. All prompts include step by step examples, and are then illustrated by a few equivalent questions for pupils to solve themselves by following the exact same method.

• Set One: How to solve basic linear equations (such as 2x + 3 = 7) by rearranging.

• Set Two: How to solve equations with Xs on both sides, by rearranging/elimination.

• Set Three: How to multiply out (and solve) equations including brackets.

• Scales Worksheet: A set of problems illustrated by drawings of balance scales, and in which pupils are encouraged to draw their own scales to help conceptualise the problems.

These resources may work well as homework, revision or independent study materials, or for SEN pupils who need concrete and very simple prompt materials at their desk to follow through step by step. There are no differentiated levels of complexity, beyond the three tiers of sheets themselves.

It is assumed that before engaging with these materials, pupils will already have been introduced to the concept of simplifying by combining like terms, along with the basic algebraic principle that a letter can represent an unknown number (they don’t introduce either of these concepts).