Unknowns, Expressions and… · B4 Mathematics

Lesson notes

Learning Objectives

Indicator: B4.2.2.1.2 - Express a given pictorial or concrete representation of an equation in symbolic form

By the end of the lesson, learners can:

Identify the unknown quantity in a given pictorial or concrete representation and name the symbol used to represent it.
Translate a picture, diagram, or concrete model showing equal parts into a symbolic equation with an unknown (e.g., using symbols like ☆, ☐, or letters such as a, b, x).
Write an addition or subtraction equation that matches a given bar model or balance-scale picture.
Check that the equation they write matches the picture by explaining which part of the picture each number and symbol in the equation represents.
Create a simple pictorial representation from a given symbolic equation and state the matching equation in symbols.

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Curriculum details

Strand: Algebra (Strand 2)
Sub-strand: Unknowns, Expressions and Equations (2.2)
Content standard: B4.2.2.1 - Express a given problem as an equation in which a symbol is used to represent an unknown number
Indicator: B4.2.2.1.2 - Express a given pictorial or concrete representation of an equation in symbolic form
Suggested placement: Term 2, Week 10 (Week 22 of the year)
Our suggestion, laid out in curriculum order across three terms of twelve weeks. NaCCA does not fix the week, so follow your school's scheme of learning.
Curriculum reference: Mathematics Curriculum for Primary Schools (Basic 4-6), 2019, p. 33
Transcribed from the official NaCCA publication. Check this page against the source.

Exemplars (from the NaCCA curriculum)

E.g. 1. Provide a pictorial representation of the following and ask students to write equations with unknowns for each situation. Students need not solve their equations. (i) The perimeter of a triangle is 12 cm. One side is 3 cm and another side is 4 cm. What is the length of the third side? (ii) Mansa has three types of stickers. She has 25 stickers, 3 are Cocoa stickers and 18 are Cashew stickers. How many of the third type does she have? (iii) Kojo's age and his sister's age add up to 18. If Kojo is 12, how old is his sister?