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Topic: Algebraic Manipulation and Formulae (Higher - Unit 3)

Specification References: N4.2h

N4.2h Distinguish in meaning between the words ‘equation’, ‘formula’, ‘expression’, and ‘identity’.


Candidates should be able to:

  • recognise that, for example, 5x + 1 = 16 is an equation
  • recognise that, for example V = IR is a formula
  • recognise that x + 3 is an expression
  • understand the identity symbol
  • recognise that is an identity that is true for all x
  • understand the meaning of the word 'term', for example know that x2 = 2x = 1 has three terms
  • write an expression

Notes

This is part of the core algebra work required across all units. The core algebra work will be assessed so that it is linked to other specification references within this unit whenever possible.

Examples

   1.  The angles in a triangle are x°, (x + 30)° and 2x°.

 

         a.     Form an equation in terms of x.

         b.     Solve your equation and use it to work out the size of the largest angle in the triangle.

 

         (This is closely related to specification reference N5.4)


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  1. This diagram shows a right-angled triangle:

  

By forming an equation, show that the shortest side is 5 cm.

                                     

          (This is closely related to specification reference G2.1)

 

 

   3.    Two angles have a difference of 30°.

          Together they form a straight line.

          The smaller angle is x°.

 

           a. Write down an expression for the larger angle, in terms of x.

           b. Work out the value of x.

 

(This is closely related to specification reference G1.1)