algebra · Year 6 · Suggested learning sequence
Writing expressions from words
An expression uses a letter for a number we don't know. Translate the words one instruction at a time. '5 less than n' means start with n and take 5 away: n − 5. '3 times n' is written 3n. Multiplying and dividing happen before adding, so 'multiply n by 3, then add 2' is 3n + 2. If the adding must happen first, use brackets: 'add 4 to n, then multiply by 3' is 3(n + 4).
Sample questions
Write an expression for: k increased by 8.
- Start with k.
- Here, adding 8 means + 8.
- The expression is k + 8.
Answer: k + 8
Write an expression for: add 3 to m.
- Start with m.
- Here, adding 3 means + 3.
- The expression is m + 3.
Answer: m + 3
Write an expression for: m multiplied by 4.
- Start with m.
- Here, 4 times m is written 4m.
- The expression is 4m.
Answer: 4m