Solve problems with two unknowns with one, several and infinite solutions
I can systematically solve problems with two unknowns with one, several and infinite solutions.
Solve problems with two unknowns with one, several and infinite solutions
I can systematically solve problems with two unknowns with one, several and infinite solutions.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Problems can be represented using bar models.
- Problems can be solved using trial and improvement.
- Different strategies work for different problems.
Keywords
Precise - If something is precise, it is exact, accurate and careful about the details.
Infinite - Infinite means without an end. If something is unlimited, you could say it has an infinite number of things.
Common misconception
Pupils resort to trial and improvement each time to solve every problem.
Pupils should look to apply what they know from previous learning and explore the structure of each problem to help them identify how best to solve it. You could come up with a checklist as a class for how best to explore a new problem each time.
To help you plan your year 6 maths lesson on: Solve problems with two unknowns with one, several and infinite solutions, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 6 maths lesson on: Solve problems with two unknowns with one, several and infinite solutions, 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 Solving problems with two unknowns unit, dive into the full secondary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions

the second addend = 35
the second addend = 50
the second addend = 67
the second addend = 76

the second addend = 28
the second addend = 37
the second addend = 61
the second addend = 73


the second missing value is 45
the second missing value is 60
the second missing value is 67
the second missing value is 63

the first missing value is 57
the first missing value is 72
the first missing value is 67
the first missing value is 71

Exit quiz
6 Questions


6 large boxes
2 large boxes
3 large boxes

