Top tips for Learning Algebra
During March we are looking broadly at the four topics that make up the Maths curriculum. This week we are looking at algebra, which has probably just sent you into a spin! So many people find algebra scary, but with the right understanding and teaching it doesn’t need to be! Here are my top tips to help:
Use your maths basics to make algebra easier
Algebra can get a bit messy if you don’t know where to start. All your basic maths principles apply to algebra. Before you attempt algebra, you need to know the following:
- Keeping long mathematical problems organised. Stack your ‘=’ sign to keep the information on either side of it neat. This will help you solve the problem faster without tripping over yourself.
- BIDMAS – the order of operations. Whether it’s letters or numbers, the bits and pieces need to be handled in the same order.
- Simplify the variables first before you do anything else.
- If you have a fairly simple calculation like the one below, you can ignore the letters for a moment while you work with the numbers.
- Whatever you do to the equation, you must do the same thing to both sides of the equals sign. If you divide 9y by 9, you also need to divide 36 by 9.
Algebra is just like numbers but with letters – but it doesn’t need to be scary
Relate calculations to how you do calculations with numbers, for example if you do multiplication with the grid method then you can apply this to your algebraic calculations too. Treat it exactly the same as you would any other calculation. Here are a few videos demonstrating.
If you get stuck with some algebra and the letters are just a stumbling block for you, try substituting with something else and see if it works. If letters beat you into submission, then use question marks or emojis instead. I used to love doing this in the classroom, before teaching algebra. Emoji maths is actually a thing now – it works so well they even use it to teach maths to people with learning disabilities.
How to improve algebra skills without doing algebra!
Being good at algebra is about logic and problem solving, so finding a way to improve these is key to algebra success. I get a Saturday paper and work through the puzzles throughout the week. One of my favourites is Sudoku. This is a fun way to get better at the underlying skills that will in turn boost algebra skills. First timer? I show you how to complete a Sudoku puzzle in my Youtube video below.
Like any aspect of maths, practicing and experimenting with different methods will help you improve over time. For more tips and advice on how to improve your skills and how to remember the things you learn, join our community!