Real maths ... because everything costs something! When you want a Nintendo DS, how long will it take if you earn £5 per hour? Although the video is a quite straightforward, and contains a Lol cameo, there is a serious side to the question. It was founded on the thought that most of the word questions in maths books are a little 'abstract.' My children are far more … [Read more...]
How to change repeating decimals to fractions proof
Repeating decimals to fractions.. .. is a favourite GCSE question, usually level A and worth around 2/4 marks. A repeating decimals to fractions question is a little more 'abstract' but, once you understand the principles, it should be relatively straightforward. The answer is to use algebra to show a formal proof. As with most mathematics aim for a logical progression with … [Read more...]
How to work out the HCF and LCM using factor trees
Factor trees are useful way of showing numbers that divide into the larger number. They're basically a picture with the number at the top and its factors below. So, if we look at the number 42, a typical factor tree could look like either one of these: Notice that the second line in both trees are different. These are still factors of 42 but, if you follow it through to the … [Read more...]
How to estimate calculations
Rule 1 in how to estimate calculations - Don't underestimate the power to estimate. Probably the most used arithmetic skill by adults is the power to estimate. We're actually pretty good and can work out a handful of change or the weight of a bag of shopping fairly accurately. There is always an emphasis on getting the correct answer in maths but... it does help if you have a … [Read more...]