Factorise a^2 - 5a – 14.

Step 1: (a )(a )Step 2: identify numbers that can multiply to 14: 1 & 14, 7 & 2Step 3: Identify which pair of numbers add together to make -5: 2 - 7 = -5Step 4: Check signs: +2 and -7Step 5: Answer: (a + 2)(a - 7)Step 6: Check, multiply out: a² +2a - 7a - 14 ---> a² -5a -14To approach maths questions, the key is to encourage the student to break down the question, create a framework logical approach to answer the question or similar questions and finally to get in the habit of checking their answers.