Explore mental and written strategies to solve problems
I can explore written and mental strategies to solve problems.
Explore mental and written strategies to solve problems
I can explore written and mental strategies to solve problems.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Looking at the numbers involved and using number-sense supports us to know which strategy is more efficient.
- A number line is a useful mental strategy when it is obvious what to add or subtract.
- When using a formal written method the concept of constant difference can be used to make the calculation easier.
Keywords
Difference - The difference is the result of subtracting one number from another. It is how much one number differs from another - represented by how far apart they are on a number line.
Efficient - Being efficient means finding a way to solve a problem quickly whilst also maintaining accuracy.
Common misconception
Children may automatically use a formal written algorithm.
What do you notice about the numbers? What would you add/subtract to get to the nearest multiple of (a power of 10)? Can you represent this on a number line?
To help you plan your year 6 maths lesson on: Explore mental and written strategies to solve problems, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 6 maths lesson on: Explore mental and written strategies to solve problems, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 maths lessons from the Rounding and solving problems with numbers up to 7 digits unit, dive into the full secondary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Licence
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
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