- Year 7
Representing a generalised number
I can use a letter to represent a generalised number.
- Year 7
Representing a generalised number
I can use a letter to represent a generalised number.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- A letter can be used to represent an unknown number in context.
- A letter can be used to represent a variable number in context.
- A letter can be used in an expression to represent a number in an expression.
- A bar model can be used to represent an expression.
Keywords
Unknown - An unknown is a quantity that has a set value but it is represented by a symbol or letter.
Variable - A variable is a quantity that can take on a range of values.
Common misconception
Pupils often think a=1 b=2 ... or that a letter represents an object
Letters represent a numerical value either unknown or variable. Avoid always using the first letter of the words used in a scenario.
To help you plan your year 7 maths lesson on: Representing a generalised number, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 7 maths lesson on: Representing a generalised number, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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Explore more key stage 3 maths lessons from the Expressions and equations unit, dive into the full secondary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.An __________ is used to show one number or calculation is equal to another.
Q2.It costs £5 to enter a fairground and then £2 for each ride. How much would it cost to enter the fair and ride 3 rides?
Q3.Select any calculation which represents the statement "I am thinking of a number. I multiply it by 10, then add 5, then subtract 2"





Q4.Which of these bar models represent the equation shown?





Q5.In a game, these shapes are worth different amounts of points. If a square is worth $$6$$ and a circle is worth $$4$$, what is the total number of points in the diagram shown?

Q6.In a game, these shapes are worth different amounts of points. If a square is worth $$2$$ and a circle is worth $$-5$$, what is the total number of points in the diagram shown?

Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the keyword to the definition
equation -
a mathematical statement showing one thing equal to another
generalised rule -
a statement that applies to all relevant cases in a scenario
unknown -
a quantity that has a set value, represented by a letter
variable -
a quantity that has a range of values.
Q2.True or false: It is always possible to work out the value of a variable.
Q3.Which equation is represented by the bar model below?
