🔢 Mathematics · Algebra

Algebraic Notation

Use and interpret algebraic notation including: ab for a × b, 3y for y + y + y, a² for a × a, a/b for a ÷ b, coefficients as fractions, and brackets for grouping; read and write algebraic expressions fluently

Typical age: 11–12 years

“When your child sees something written as "3y" or "a²" in a maths problem, do they know what those shorthand notations mean and can they work with them?”

0 / 3 mastered

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Needs first

Writing Algebraic EquationsREQUIRED
Algebraic notation builds on KS2 expressing missing-number problems algebraically
Using Simple FormulaeREQUIRED
Using letters in expressions extends KS2 simple formulae work

Unlocks next

Expressions & Equations VocabularyREQUIRED
Algebraic vocabulary requires fluency with algebraic notation first
Angle sums in triangles and polygons
Expressing angle sum as (n-2)×180 requires algebraic notation for the general formula
Substituting into FormulaeREQUIRED
Substitution requires understanding algebraic notation
Algebraic TransformationsREQUIRED
Translating real-world situations into algebra requires notation fluency