pdf, 24.32 MB
pdf, 24.32 MB

Introduce pupils to early algebraic thinking in a clear and accessible way with this colourful set of 8 P7 maths anchor charts.

This progressive pack uses function machines, number relationships, inverse operations and missing-number problems to develop the thinking skills pupils need before moving on to formal algebra with letters and variables. It provides a useful bridge between arithmetic and algebra while keeping the focus on familiar numbers and operations.

This resource covers:

  • Introduction to Function Machines – understanding inputs, rules and outputs
  • Addition & Subtraction Function Machines – applying addition and subtraction rules to find outputs
  • Multiplication & Division Function Machines – applying multiplication and division rules
  • Finding Missing Numbers – finding missing inputs and outputs by working forwards and backwards
  • Finding the Rule – comparing inputs and outputs to identify the operation used
  • Missing Number Problems – using inverse operations to solve missing-number calculations across all four operations
  • Simple Algebraic Thinking – recognising relationships, applying the same rule to different numbers and working backwards
  • Problem Solving & Reasoning – applying function-machine and missing-number skills to real-life and reasoning-style problems

Skills developed include:

  • Understanding input → rule → output
  • Applying addition, subtraction, multiplication and division rules
  • Using inverse operations
  • Working backwards to find missing values
  • Identifying unknown inputs and outputs
  • Finding rules from number relationships
  • Comparing how numbers change
  • Recognising multiplicative and additive relationships
  • Checking solutions by working forwards again
  • Mathematical reasoning and problem solving
  • Building foundations for later algebra
  • Each anchor chart includes:
  • Clear, pupil-friendly explanations
  • Colourful function-machine visuals
  • Key mathematical vocabulary
  • Step-by-step strategies
  • Worked examples- Practice questions
  • Missing-number challenges
  • Reasoning prompts
  • Helpful reminders and checking strategies

This pack is particularly useful as an introduction to algebraic thinking before pupils begin using letters to represent unknown values, making the transition into formal algebra feel much more manageable.

Perfect for P7, Upper Primary, KS2 and CfE Second Level, and ideal for:
Whole-class teaching
Maths working walls
Lesson introductions
Revision and consolidation
Small-group intervention
Independent pupil reference
Early algebra preparation
Problem-solving sessions

You will receive:
An 8-page printable PDF, with one full-page anchor chart for each teaching step.
A bright, engaging resource designed to help pupils move confidently from number operations to missing numbers, rules, relationships and early algebraic reasoning.

Please note: This resource is supplied as a PDF and is not editable.

Get this resource as part of a bundle and save up to 44%

A bundle is a package of resources grouped together to teach a particular topic, or a series of lessons, in one place.

Bundle

Early Algebra P7/ KS2 Anchor Charts

Build pupils’ confidence from number patterns and sequences through to function machines, missing-number problems and early algebra with this comprehensive P7 maths bundle. This bundle brings together three complete 8-step anchor chart packs, providing 24 colourful, progressive maths posters. The resources have been designed to work particularly well as a teaching sequence: pupils begin by identifying and extending patterns, progress to rules and unknown numbers, and then move into using symbols and letters in formal algebraic expressions and equations. This bundle includes: - Number Patterns & Sequences – 8 Anchor Charts - What Are Number Patterns? – recognising patterns, sequences and rules - Continue & Extend Sequences – working with increasing and decreasing sequences - Find the Rule – identifying addition, subtraction, multiplication and division rules - Input & Output Rules – applying consistent rules to different numbers - Special Number Patterns – odd, even, multiples and square-number patterns - Term Number & Position – understanding positions within sequences and finding later terms - Missing Numbers & Pattern Puzzles – completing sequences and reasoning about missing values - Pattern Problem Solving – applying pattern knowledge in mathematical and real-life contexts Function Machines, Missing Numbers & Simple Algebraic Thinking – 8 Anchor Charts This pack provides the bridge between number work and formal algebra, keeping the focus on numbers before introducing letters. - Introduction to Function Machines – input, rule and output - Addition & Subtraction Function Machines - Multiplication & Division Function Machines - Finding Missing Numbers – missing inputs and outputs - Finding the Rule – comparing inputs and outputs - Missing Number Problems – using inverse operations - Simple Algebraic Thinking – exploring number relationships and consistent rules - Problem Solving & Reasoning – applying early algebraic thinking in context Using Symbols & Letters – Early Algebra – 8 Anchor Charts - Once pupils are secure with rules and missing numbers, this pack introduces letters as representations of unknown or changing values. - What Do Symbols & Letters Mean? - Reading & Writing Expressions - Substituting Values - Solving Addition & Subtraction Equations - Solving Multiplication & Division Equations - Function Machines with Letters - Writing Expressions from Words - Problem Solving & Reasoning with Letters and Symbols - A clear progression into algebra - The three packs can be used independently, but together they create a particularly useful learning journey: Spot patterns → identify rules → work with unknown numbers → use function machines → work forwards and backwards → introduce letters → substitute values → write expressions → solve simple equations This allows pupils to develop the understanding behind algebra before being expected to manipulate letters and symbols confidently. Across the bundle pupils will develop skills in: Recognising and extending number patterns Increasing and decreasing sequences Finding mathematical rules Addition, subtraction, multiplication and division relationships Input and output tables Function machines Missing-number calculations Inverse operations Working forwards and backwards Term numbers and sequence positions Mathematical reasoning Letters representing numbers Algebraic expressions Substitution Simple equations Translating words into algebraic notation Problem solving with unknown values Each anchor chart includes: Clear, pupil-friendly explanations Colourful visual models Key mathematical vocabulary Step-by-step teaching methods Worked examples Helpful reminders Practice questions Reasoning and problem-solving opportunities Perfect for: P7 / Upper Primary CfE Second Level KS2 Whole-class teaching Maths working walls Lesson introductions Revision and consolidation Small-group intervention Independent pupil reference Early algebra preparation Transition into secondary mathematics You will receive: 3 printable PDF packs containing 24 anchor charts in total: 8 × Number Patterns & Sequences Anchor Charts 8 × Function Machines, Missing Numbers & Simple Algebraic Thinking Anchor Charts 8 × Using Symbols & Letters Early Algebra Anchor Charts A comprehensive, visually consistent resource bundle designed to help pupils move confidently from recognising number patterns to understanding and using early algebra. Please note: These resources are supplied as PDFs and are not editable.

£5.00

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