Level 7-8 Algebra - Linear Brackets

By now you'll have done a good deal of work in KS3 Maths all about algebra. You'll be familiar with equations, variables, powers and many other aspects of the subject. But how well do you understand linear brackets?

Equations can often be simplified by removing any brackets. You may have to 'get-rid' of two sets of adjoining brackets so that you can work out the values of the terms within the brackets. Each term in the first bracket needs to be multiplied by each term in the second bracket.

Be careful if there are any powers in your equations. If there are then remember this piece of advice: when multiplying powers, we add them together so y² x y⁴ = y⁶. When dividing powers we take one from the other so y⁹ ÷ y⁵ = y⁴.

The best way to beat the brackets is to practise. Try this quiz and see how well you can deal with them. Take your time and consider your answers carefully. Good luck!