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Topic: Algebraic Manipulation (Foundation - Unit 3)

Specification References: N4.2

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


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
  • write an expression

Notes

Candidates should also know the meaning of the word ‘term’.
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 that unit.

Examples

  1. Given an equation, a formula and an expression, match each of them to the correct word.

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  1. Chloe is x years old.
    Her sister is three years older.
    Her brother is twice her age.
    The sum of their ages is 67 years.

        a. Write an expression, in terms of x, for her sister’s age.

        b. Form an equation in x to work out Chloe’s age.

  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)

  1. 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)