COMPARING METHODS

There are many methods for solving equations such as:

using diagrams to work backwards guess, check and improve
using diagrams to represent a balance setting out a formal solution showing steps

Compare these methods to determine which you prefer for different types of equations.

TASK 1 Compare three methods

n
Solve - 7 = 30 using these three methods.
3

Guess, check and improve Working backwards flowchart Setting out a formal solution

Guess 1: n
- 7 = 30
Check: 3

Which method did you prefer for this equation? ___________________________________________

TASK 2 Compare three methods

Solve 5y + 17 = 8y + 2 using these methods.

Guess, check, improve Balance diagram Formal solution

Guess 1: 5y + 17 = 8y + 2
Check:

Complete the diagram by drawing

more circles on the left and more y
boxes on the right. Use the completed
diagram to solve the equation.

Which method did you prefer for this equation? ___________________________________________

TASK 3 Choose your own methods

Solve 5(w – 1) = 40 using at least two different methods.

Which method did you prefer for this equation? ___________________________________________

TASK 4 Choose your own methods

2 p + 17
Solve = 25 using at least two different methods.
4

Which method did you prefer for this equation? ___________________________________________