Grade 9 Maths Practice Paper 1

A Grade 9 CAPS-style Paper 1 practice test: integers, exponents, scientific notation, algebra, equations, patterns, graphs and interest, with worked answers.

This Grade 9 practice paper covers the Paper 1 topics most schools examine in November: integers, exponents and scientific notation, algebraic expressions and factorising, equations, number patterns, linear graphs and compound interest.

Give yourself 45 minutes, show all your working, and then check each answer against the worked solution. The common mistake listed under each answer is the one teachers see most often.

Topics covered

  • Integers and order of operations
  • Exponents and scientific notation
  • Algebraic expressions and factorising
  • Equations
  • Number patterns
  • Linear graphs
  • Compound interest

Questions with worked answers

  • Question 1: Integers (3 marks). Calculate without a calculator: −3(−2)³ + 18 ÷ (−3)
  • Question 2: Exponents (3 marks). Simplify: (3a²b)³
  • Question 3: Scientific notation (2 marks). Write 52 000 000 in scientific notation.
  • Question 4: Algebraic expressions (4 marks). Expand and simplify: (2x + 3)(x − 4) − x(x + 1)
  • Question 5: Factorising (4 marks). Factorise fully: (a) 5x² − 20 (b) x² − 9x + 20
  • Question 6: Equations (4 marks). Solve for x: 3(x + 2) − 2 = 5x − 8
  • Question 7: Number patterns (4 marks). Consider the pattern 2; 9; 16; 23; … (a) Find the general term. (b) Find T₁₀₀.
  • Question 8: Linear graphs (4 marks). A straight line passes through (0; −1) and (2; 5). Find its equation and its x-intercept.
  • Question 9: Financial maths (5 marks). R3 000 is invested at 8% p.a. compound interest for 2 years. How much interest is earned?

How to use this paper

  • Do the paper without a calculator first where you can; it builds the speed you need.
  • Mark yourself with the worked answers, giving method marks for correct steps.
  • Redo every question you got wrong three days later, without looking.

Frequently asked questions

Is this an official Grade 9 paper?

No. It is a Snap&Learn practice paper written in the style of a CAPS Grade 9 Paper 1. Grade 9 exams are set by schools.

Can I use a calculator?

Most schools allow a calculator in Grade 9 papers, but try questions 1 to 3 without one: you're expected to work with integers and exponents by hand.

Snap&Learn gives South African Matric learners instant, CAPS-aligned, step-by-step Mathematics solutions. Snap or upload a question and the AI shows every method mark the way the NSC memo awards them. Your first three AI solutions are free.