A really good way to introduce algebra in Year 6 is to use function machines. They provide a visual step-by-step approach, showing a clear linear approach: an input number goes in, a rule is applied and an output comes out. It is not until later that a rule can be described using algebra.

Various terms such as, ‘input’ and ‘output’ need to be explained, but the key to a function machine is that the machine has one set of rules and that this set of rules has to work for all numbers.

Our latest published resources keep to just one function, or rule. Children will need to look at more than one of the inputs and outputs to be sure that they have the correct rule. We do, of course, have further worksheets already published, including 2-step functions and using simple formulae.