Jane V

A worksheet that is designed to be used in conjunction with concrete materials (e.g. matchsticks) to help students develop and recognise patterns. Students write their own equations using worded descriptions first before introducing pro-numerals/variables. Suitable for grades 5-8.

A group PBL activity on the architectural design and issues surrounding the leaning tower of Pisa. A deliberately open investigation where students are encouraged to use their knowledge of angles and stabilisation methods to develop a solution to the problem.

A great non calculator starter activity for high school students using their birthday. More capable students can generalise the 'trick' using algebra. Please note step 8 is written in DD/MM/YY format for USA folk.

An open ended and student-motivated investigation using area, perimeter and algebra. The problem begins with: "You are a private Architect who specialises in the design of houses. The work you do is particularly interesting, as you only use algebra to complete your plans. Recently, your principal has requested that you develop the floor plan for her new home. You must, however, work within the following constraints: · Use only algebra to represent the various areas and perimeters of the house ·

An advanced scavenger hunt (with answers) across the topics of algebra, financial mathematics, riddles and fractions. This is suitable for grades 7 to 9 (AUS) or middle school (USA) for a 60 minute lesson or for distance learning. The pages can be printed and posted around the classroom. Each activity will have an answer that is located at the bottom of another activity. Answers are provided.

A powerpoint of mixed problem solving activities with inspiration from GSCE, SAT and HSC past paper questions. Suitable for a high ability grade 8-9 group or for upper years (10-12).

A blank lesson template beginning with the basic conversions from square numbers to square roots and understanding the concept of squaring or cubing a number, to generalising algebraically. Suitable for grades 7-9.