GCSE / Maths / Edexcel

Edexcel Higher algebra demo

Paper: Higher Paper 1. Topic: Algebra. Total marks: 5.

Demo paper-style question flow

(a) / 2 marks

Factorise x^2 + 7x + 12.

Look for two numbers that multiply to 12 and add to 7.

Revision note: /topics/algebra

(b) / 3 marks

Solve x^2 + 7x + 12 = 0.

Use the factorised form and show both roots clearly.

Revision note: /topics/algebra

Type directly

Fastest first version for short answers, algebra, and explanation.

Write on screen

Use finger, Apple Pencil, stylus, or mouse for working out.

Upload written answer photo

Take a photo of a full worked solution and submit that for marking.

1 mark for a correct factor pair leading to (x + 3)(x + 4).

1 mark for the fully correct factorised form.

1 mark for using the factorised equation to find roots.

1 mark for x = -3.

1 mark for x = -4.

Underlying theory

Quadratic factorisation links directly to solving by setting each bracket equal to zero.

Students should check that the factor pair multiplies to the constant and adds to the middle coefficient.

If factorisation fails, that often signals weak algebra fluency rather than a misunderstanding of quadratics.

Best next steps

Repeat with one harder quadratic where the leading coefficient is not 1.

Move into completing the square or the quadratic formula after the factorising route is secure.

Compare typed answers with a handwritten upload once the OCR marking flow is ready.