Parallel vectors
I can identify column vectors which are parallel.
Parallel vectors
I can identify column vectors which are parallel.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Vectors are parallel if the gradient of each vector is the same.
- If drawn, you can see this visually.
- Parallel vectors are multiples of each other.
Keywords
Parallel - Two lines are parallel if they are straight lines that are always the same (non-zero) distance apart.
Gradient - The gradient is a measure of how steep a line is. It is calculated by finding the rate of change in the y-direction with respect to the positive x-direction.
Displacement - Displacement is the distance from the starting point when measured in a straight line.
Common misconception
Parallel vectors must be in the same direction.
Two vectors are parallel if one can be written as a scalar multiple of the other. This scalar multiple can be negative therefore the direction can be opposite, but the gradients remain equivalent.
To help you plan your year 11 maths lesson on: Parallel vectors, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 maths lesson on: Parallel vectors, 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 4 maths lessons from the Vectors unit, dive into the full secondary maths curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Licence
Starter quiz
6 Questions







$$5\choose-9$$ -
Top left
$$-5\choose-9$$ -
Top right
$$-5\choose9$$ -
Bottom right
$$5\choose9$$ -
Bottom left
Exit quiz
6 Questions
$$4\choose12$$ -
$$6\choose18$$
$$-2\choose12$$ -
$$-1\choose6$$
$$-5\choose-3$$ -
$$15\choose9$$

