Algebra Worksheet and Explanation

We’ve structured this information to help children with their education. It is targetted at children in years 5 and 6 and the questions for the worksheet have been stripped from past papers. Having an Understanding of algebra is part of the primary school curriculum and children will deal with algebra in both KS1 and KS2.

The Information below will give an overview of the topic and we have included a detailed worksheet with full answers. The worksheet includes 10 algebra questions and is relevant for KS2 pupils approaching their SATS test.

Download Free Algebra Worksheet – Questions

Download Free Algebra Shapes Worksheet – Answers

If you are not ready to download the worksheets yet, then read on for some information about algebra. This has provided to introduce the topics covered in the worksheet for those that might be unfamiliar but also as a quick revision tool for those that would like a quick refresher before accessing the worksheet.

 

Algebra Explained

What is Algebra?

Algebra uses symbols (usually letters such as x or y) to replace numbers. We call this symbol the unknown or the variable and it is our job to find out the value of this symbol. In an equation, both sides must always be equal. For example: x-2 = 4

To solve this we need to work out the value of x. So we can see that x minus 2 is equal to 4 and we know that the value of x is going to be 2 bigger than 4. So in this example x=6 which is the same as 4 plus 2.

100+y = 50+61. In this example, a child would first have to work out that 50 plus 61 is equal to 111. Then in order to keep the equation balanced, they would need to work out the difference between 111 and 100, which is 11. So, y = 11.

What Should Children be Learning About Algebra in KS1?

Although algebra is not introduced in the KS1 curriculum, many of the aspects needed to understand algebra are introduced, such as addition and subtraction. In order to understand algebra, it is important that children first understand these basics.

What Should Children be Learning About Algebra in KS2?

From year 4 onwards, the thinking behind algebra will be introduced such as working out the value of an unknown with other bits of information. However, we will not see equations until year 6, where algebra is properly introduced.

In year 6, children will be required to work out the answer to simple equations like the examples used above and may be expected to complete harder variations of these using multiplication. The most important skill that children develop is an understanding of variables and equations.

 

Please feel free to download the algebra worksheet and answers. No registration is necessary.