GCSE · Algebraic proof

Expressing generality — the language of proofExam-style questions

Why testing examples proves nothing, how 2n, 2n + 1 and n, n + 1, n + 2 encode "any even", "any odd" and "consecutive", and when one counterexample settles everything.

12 questions · GCSE (Higher) level · mark scheme and worked solution on each · no sign-up to try

DifficultyAllLevel 1Level 2Level 3Level 4Level 5
  1. 1
    Prove that the sum of any three consecutive integers is a multiple of 3.
    Level 3 · 2 marksTry it
  2. 2
    nn is an integer.

    (a) Write down an expression, in terms of nn, for any even number.

    (b) Explain why 2n+12n + 1 is an odd number for every integer nn.
    Level 3 · 2 marksTry it
  3. 3
    Prove that the sum of any odd number and any even number is odd.
    Level 3 · 3 marksTry it