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Learn: Essential Mathematical Symbols and Operations
iGCSE Mathematics
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Welcome!Today we'll learn about essential mathematical symbols and operations. These are key building blocks for solving problems in iGCSE Mathematics.
What are Mathematical Symbols?Mathematical symbols are shorthand notations used to represent operations, relationships, and values. For example, the addition symbol (+) means combining numbers, while the division symbol (÷) shows splitting a value into equal parts.
Key Operations in MathematicsThe four basic operations are addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. These operations are used in almost every type of problem you'll encounter in iGCSE Mathematics.
Quick check: What does the division symbol (÷) represent?
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Order of OperationsIn mathematics, calculations must follow the BODMAS or PEMDAS rule: Brackets, Orders (powers/roots), Division, Multiplication, Addition, and Subtraction. This ensures accurate results.
Brackets and ParenthesesBrackets ([ ]) and parentheses (( )) are used to group parts of an equation. Operations inside brackets are completed first before moving on to other calculations.
In the order of operations, calculations inside {{blank0}} are completed first.
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Multiplication and DivisionMultiplication (×) combines equal groups, while division (÷) splits values into equal groups. They are inverse operations, meaning they undo each other.
Addition and SubtractionAddition (+) combines values, while subtraction (−) finds the difference between values. Like multiplication and division, they are inverse operations.
Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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Review Time!Great work! You've learned about mathematical symbols, operations, and the order of operations. Now let's test your understanding with a few questions.
Which of the following follow the BODMAS rule? (Select all that apply)
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Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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The operation {{blank0}} is the inverse of multiplication.
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Which operation should you perform first in the equation 5 × (4 + 6)?
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