Algebra

GCSE Mathematics: Algebra

Algebra is an integral part of the GCSE Mathematics curriculum.  It has significant weightage in all the levels of GCSE examinations. Given a little patience and practice, Algebra can become your best mate quickly. The aspects of algebra are not bounded within the school premises, it will be your life long partner should you continue in the fields of science, finance, and economics.

Topics covered as part of Algebra Curriculum

• Equations: The basis of algebra is based on equations. There major types of equations are of utmost importance. They are:

• • Quadratic: Solving quadratic equations by formulae, factorizing or square completion
  • Iterations: Ability to rearrange the equation in a way to solve it
  • Trial & Improvement: These estimated based equations must be solved using possible numbers that might be the solution, solving the equations via substitution and then improving the estimate so that the answer is within solution range
  • Simultaneous: Solving such equations using methods of substitution, elimination, and straight-line graphs

• Proportions: It is related to ratios and is dependent on two variables values, which are dependent on each other. There are two kinds of proportions, direct and indirect. Students are expected to understand the behavior of variable values in these two kinds of proportions. 
• Matrices: Understanding data and variable organization along with table formation using concepts of row/column order.
• Gradient and Graphs: Ability to create various types of graphs using given data and analyzing data provided in graphs. A thorough understanding of the gradient (slope) is expected with a positive and negative gradient.
• Factorizing: It is the reverse of bracket expansion. Pupils are expected to take out the common factors in the equations and compact it out.
• Functions: Functions also includes their respective graphical manifestations. For this topic, students should understand functions and apply the respective transformations into graphs
• Indices: Indices section covers primarily the ways of dividing and multiplying algebraic equations with the use of indices. It also covers finding indices roots
• Algebraic Expression: Ability to combine like terms and along with the same variables and grouping the similar terms
• Inequalities: Use the concepts of basic functions along with graphs and number lines in Inequalities equations.
• Travel Graphs: Ability to use the concepts of time, speed, and distance in graphs along with their units, velocity, and trapezium rules.
• Flowcharts: Understanding the meanings of each box and symbols and ability to devise a flow of any event using the boxes and symbols
• Algebraic Fractions: Using methodologies of numeric fractions using algebraic expressions

Difficulty Level

Algebra deals with both problems solving and analytical skills. The difficulty level rises as one crosses a tier. While the basic tiers are easy to understand and solve, students must be attentive to the more difficult topics in higher tier levels.

Your takeaways from GCSE Algebra

GCSE Algebra makes you:

• Ability to identify and solve different types of equations
• Understand the differences between numerical and algebraic equations
• Have a basic analytical capability to create and read graphs and functions
• Understand the concepts of matrices and indices
• Understand the proportional relationship of variables in equations and inequalities

Cracking the GCSE Algebra portion

The key to crack the GCSE Algebra is not to panic. Besides, you can:

• Practice regularly
• Have a thorough understanding of the Algebra concepts
• Assemble and solve as many past papers as possible.