Introduction to Algebraic Terms and Expressions using Area

This resource teaches KS3 students to use algebraic terms and expressions to represent the area of rectangles, squares and compound shapes. In doing so, they learn how to expand brackets and factorize algebraic expressions.

After an introduction, there are many examples offering ample scope for the use of whiteboards. There is then a matching exercise where students have to match shapes with expressions for their areas.

There is an extended plenary where students are asked to expand single brackets and factorize linear terms, multiply two terms in the same variable and to factorize a term in n-squared, expanding two brackets and factorizing a quadratic square.