Year 7 Maths

Year 7Math7 class recently got their first taste of algebra with a hands-on and engaging introductory lesson that turned algebraic expressions into edible fun! Using a mixed bag of lollies as manipulatives, students explored the foundational concepts of writing number sentences and collecting like terms.

The lesson began with students organising their manipulatives into like terms. The teacher wrote a number sentence using words, which the students then made with their lollies. The class decided that their number sentences needed to be abbreviated and came up with pronumerals for each term; strawberry creams (sc or cs), black cats (bc or cb), jellybabies (jb) and several others.

   3jb + 2sc +2s +mb +jb +2sc + 2mb

Students counted how many terms were in their expression. 

= 3jb +jb +2sc + 2sc + mb + 2mb +2s 

Students collected like terms both with the manipulatives and their written work..

= 4jb +4sc + 3mb + 2s   

By physically grouping the lollies, students were able to see how expressions could

 be simplified.

This tactile and visual approach not only made abstract algebraic ideas more accessible but also added a healthy dose of fun to the classroom.

The activity sparked discussions, strengthened collaboration skills, and helped demystify algebra for students who might have found the new concept daunting. By the end of the lesson, students were confidently creating and simplifying their own algebraic expressions—proof that learning really can be sweet!

Ms Amanda Cox 

Maths Teacher