KS4 Quadratics

This set of resource is for the teaching of quadratics.

Firstly a visual way of understanding is used 'Quadratic Completed Square Form' where the teacher uses the superb resource to allow understanding between the visual geometric curve and its algebraic equivalent. Importantly some results can be hidden so the pupils have to answer.

Next is a good worksheet 'Quadratic Functions' with answers to the questions.

Next Nuffield's superb book 'Nuffield Advanced Mathematics Book 3' that has an excellent chapter for extension material.

Next 'The History of Mathematics' sheds a lighter note for further extension where ancient civilisations knew how to solve quadratics and further questions are provided.

Finally 'Quadratics 1' gives ten questions in a Flash application with multiple choice for a plenary where students can be invited to the interactive whiteboard to make their selections.

Quadratic Completed Square Form

A sophisticated application that shows a quadratic curve that can be moved around the screen, as it is moved a full expanded form, a completed square form and roots are displayed. This can also be used to show complex roots but need not be used in this way. Keep the bottom of the curve below the x-axis or simply hide the roots. Also the completed square or the expanded view can be hidden.

This superb resource can be of valuable help in showing the visual relationship between the curve and the algebraic representation.

Pens are available so lines can be drawn on the screen.

Quadratic Functions

This resource contains 7 pdf worksheets/tutorials.

For this list y9s17ex.pdf has excellent questions and importantly answers to both factorising quadratics and solving (to find the roots).

Nuffield Advanced Mathematics Book 3

This 306 page book has 12 pages regarding solving quadratic equations from page 8 to 20. This resource can be printed and hence a valuable guide for those who can revise from teaching material. It covers all aspects of quadratic solutions with comprehensive examples. The book contains much further valuable mathematics material.

The History of Mathematics

This amusing history shows just how early quadratics were solved. The Babylonians solved quadratics and many examples and questions are given. This gives a good perspective upon the subject and Activity 2.10 on page 22 (page 27 of the pdf) is well worth looking at chapter 5 where the Arabs used them. This is suitable for extension work and a lighter look at this interesting subject.

Quadratics 1

This is a set of 10 questions regarding various aspects of quadratics. There are 4 options to select from and the student selects just one option. This includes collecting like terms, factorisation and expanding brackets. A notepad is available for notes as each question is added. The results are given at the end with a good explanation of right or incorrect answers. Good as a plenary or starter for more advanced levels.