Week 3: Introduction to algebra

Introduction

In mathematics, equations are used a great deal in arriving at a solution to a problem. This week, you will build skills to enable you to solve an equation, or equations, using algebraic techniques. You’ll start by looking at why algebra is so useful, before moving on to simplifying algebraic expressions and changing the subject of an equation. These are both important techniques in preparation for solving equations. In the final section, you will learn how to solve simultaneous equations – pairs of equations each with the same two unknowns. As usual you will have the opportunity to practice the techniques by completing the activities included this week.

By the end of this week you will have:

• gained an understanding of how to rearrange and simplify algebraic expressions
• learned how to solve for one unknown in an equation
• learned how to solve for two unknowns in simultaneous equations.