Did you know? A worked example can be read as a sequence of decisions. Asking why each step is useful helps a student taking G2 subjects move from following an explanation to choosing an approach independently.
G2 refers to a subject level under Full Subject-Based Banding. This guide offers practical learning suggestions; follow your school’s current subject instructions and assessment requirements.
Find your next step
Choose an example that matches today’s objective · Read the decision behind each step · Worked example: solve an equation · Try a close variation · Try a change that requires a decision · Apply the same routine to writing · Finish with an independent attempt and a check · Quick questions
Choose an example that matches today’s objective
Begin with the current school topic and a specific learning aim. It might be solving an equation, explaining a process or developing a paragraph. Choose an example that makes that aim visible.
Keep the original question beside the solution. The conditions in the question explain why particular steps or details belong in the answer.
Read the decision behind each step
For every line, ask what changed and why. In a calculation, identify the operation. In a written response, identify the job of the sentence: stating a claim, supplying evidence or explaining a connection.
This approach makes the example easier to discuss. A student can point to the exact decision they understand or want clarified.
Worked example: solve an equation
Consider 2(x + 3) = 18. One route is to divide both sides by 2, giving x + 3 = 9, then subtract 3 from both sides to obtain x = 6. Substitution gives 2(6 + 3) = 18.
Another route expands first: 2x + 6 = 18, then 2x = 12 and x = 6. Both routes preserve equality. Comparing them shows that the structure of a question can suggest more than one valid sequence.
Try a close variation
Now solve 3(y + 4) = 27. Dividing both sides by 3 gives y + 4 = 9, so y = 5. Checking gives 3(5 + 4) = 27.
Ask the student to explain which feature made division a useful first step. The explanation connects the new question to the original example while keeping the reasoning explicit.
Try a change that requires a decision
Consider 3y + 4 = 25. The brackets have changed, so the expression has a different structure. Subtract 4 from both sides to obtain 3y = 21, then divide by 3 to obtain y = 7.
Place the two questions side by side. Ask what the 3 multiplies in each expression. This comparison helps the student attend to the mathematical structure when selecting a method.
Apply the same routine to writing
A model paragraph may begin with a recommendation, add a reason and provide a practical detail. Ask what each sentence contributes to the reader. Then write a paragraph for a different situation using the same underlying purpose.
For example, a recommendation for a reading corner may explain access to books and how they will be organised. A recommendation for a noticeboard needs details suited to displaying and updating information. The structure guides the work; the new situation supplies the content.
Finish with an independent attempt and a check
After discussing the example, choose a suitable related task and complete it independently. Check against the question, a supplied answer or teacher feedback as appropriate.
Record one sentence about the method: “I chose this step because…” If further guidance is needed, bring that sentence and the working to the next lesson. It shows the decision the student is trying to make.
Quick questions
Should I cover the solution? After understanding the explanation, try an appropriate related task without looking at it. How many variations should I do? Use a manageable set that practises the intended skill and follow teacher advice.
Can parents help without knowing the full topic? Ask the student to explain the purpose of a step and how they will check the answer. What is a useful first action? Choose one example from class and write a reason beside each major step.
Continue through the G2 series
G2 meaning and parent guide · Build a topic revision map · Use school assessment feedback
Understanding Question Words and Planning a Clear Answer · Building a Useful Subject Vocabulary Notebook · Planning a Purposeful Study Session with a Classmate
Sources and scope
For current examination subject documents, consult the SEAB 2027 G2 syllabus directory. For a detailed explanation-first teaching example, read the eduKate Secondary 1 Mathematics guide.
Information checked: 25 October 2026. The examples, notebook formats and study arrangements above are illustrative eduKate suggestions. Teachers’ current instructions determine the scope and requirements of individual school tasks.