Topics covered within this unit: 2.1 Linear patterns 2.2 Simplifying expressions 2.3 Factorising using common factors 2.4 Changing the subject of a formula
2.5 Solving linear equations with one unknown
2.6 Solving linear equations with two unknowns
2.7 Linear functions
The Learning Outcomes covered in this unit are contained in the following sections:
Exploring patterns, expressions, equations and functions
Something to think about …
Solving simultaneous equations dates as far back as 300 BCE in the Chinese textbook Nine Chapters of the Mathematical Art.
Gauss (1777–1855) describes a method of solving simultaneous equations.
Simultaneous equations are now a vital part of engineering, physics, chemistry, IT and economics.
The equation 3x − 2y = 8 represents the path of a rocket. The equation x + 4y = 12 represents the path of a second rocket. Find the point where the paths of the rockets will cross.
2.1 Linear patterns By the end of this section you
should be able to: ● represent linear patterns
● generate a generalised expression for a linear pattern
Discuss and discover
Below are the different stages in a pattern on the fl oor of the golf club dressing room.
(i) Represent the number of squares in each stage of the pattern in a table.
Stage 0 (start)
Stage 1
Stage 2
Stage 3
(ii) Draw a graph to represent the total number of squares in each stage of the pattern, putting the stage number on the x- axis. (iii) Is this a linear pattern? Explain your answer.