JENECONKMaths Universe

Square Roots

Ages 9–13

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Square Roots

The symbol √ gives the principal, or non-negative, square root. It is the non-negative number that squares to make the given value.

Your goals

  • ✓You can find the square root of a number.
  • ✓You can use principal square root, radical sign correctly.
  • ✓You can square your answer to recover the starting number.

Words to know

principal square root:
The non-negative number whose square equals the given number.
radical sign:
The symbol √ used for a principal square root.

Examples

  • 1√9 = 3 because 3 × 3 = 9.
  • 2√25 = 5 and √144 = 12.

Check these

  • • Do not halve a number when you need its square root.
  • • Keep every number, symbol, label, and unit in its correct place.
  • • Show enough working to check how you reached your answer.

Helpful habits

  • • Read the whole question before choosing what to do.
  • • Show one clear step at a time and check each step.
  • • If you are stuck, draw a model, try smaller numbers, or revisit the example.

Now try your own

Create your own square roots example, solve it, and explain how you checked it.

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