Constructing and Solving Equations | I Do, We Do, You Do | Year 8 Maths print-free LESSON

Turn worded situations into equations with this print-free Year 8 maths lesson. Pupils define an unknown, translate the information, solve their equation and interpret the answer in context. Examples cover prices, entry fees, number operations, perimeter, area, angles and equal lengths.

PRINT-FREE TEACHING
Project the lesson and let pupils work in exercise books or on mini-whiteboards. Questions, explanations, practice and answers sit together in an editable PowerPoint, ready for you to adapt to your class.

I DO, WE DO, YOU DO
Teacher examples show how to construct an equation before solving it in a clear order. Six modelling questions use a three-column, two-row arrangement with matched pairs for demonstration and guided practice. Space beneath each question supports live working. Corresponding solutions connect the algebra to ticket prices, rectangle dimensions and angle sizes.

DIFFERENTIATION ON ONE TASK SLIDE
Keep the whole class working from one screen with 8 Developing questions, 8 Secure questions, 5 Greater Depth prompts and a staged Super Challenge. Developing includes simple number statements, equal groups, prices and basic shape measures. Secure brings in fixed fees, expressions for side lengths, angle totals, ages and taxi charges.

Greater Depth asks pupils to use a mean, correct a perimeter equation, calculate an area, compare two pricing plans and create their own price problem. Pupils explain the unknown and interpret their solution.

The Super Challenge explores a rectangle with a fixed difference between its length and width. Pupils define a variable, form a perimeter equation, find both dimensions and check all four sides. They then change the perimeter and explain the effect on each dimension. The complete solution follows the question numbering on one answer slide.

AFL AND MISCONCEPTIONS
A six-question starter revisits useful prior skills. Dedicated AFL questions provide opportunities to check understanding during the lesson. A misconception task exposes the error of counting only two sides of a rectangle when forming a perimeter equation. Worked answers show how to correct the reasoning and check against the context.

An exam-style question combines equation construction with finding an area. A three-question exit check samples prices, square perimeter and angles on a straight line, helping you decide what needs revisiting.

MINIMALLY DIFFERENT PRACTICE
Three sequences vary one feature at a time: a final total, an entry fee or a perimeter. Shared instructions keep each context clear while pupils form and solve the numbered equations. Answers support comparison of how each change affects the unknown.

INCLUDED
A 32-slide editable PowerPoint with answers, a premium 4:3 thumbnail and this combined TES title and description. Designed for Year 8, with content relevant to Sparx M957: Constructing and solving equations.