Simplifying Algebraic Expressions Combining Like Terms Learning Objectives

Simplifying Algebraic Expressions Combining Like Terms

Learning Objectives By the end of class today, you should be able to say: "I can simplify algebraic expressions by combining like terms. " In this presentation, you will learn about: ● the parts of an algebraic expression ● what "like terms" are ● how to simplify algebraic expressions by combining like terms

Algebraic Expressions: A Closer Look An algebraic expression can be broken into different parts, including terms, variables, coefficients, and constants.

An Algebraic Expression Dissected 5 x + 3 y -8 5 x + 3 y - 8 terms (numbers, variables, or the product of a number and a variable)

Make it Simple! To simplify an algebraic expression means to make it simpler. In other words, rewrite the expression in the most compact way, without changing the value of the expression. It's like organizing the expression and making it neater!

Like Terms Like terms have exactly the same variable factors LIKE TERMS NOT LIKE TERMS 3 x, -2 x -2, 5 9 n 2, 3 n 2 100, 1 4 n, 5 n 3 xy, 4 yx 3 x, 3 y -2, 5 x 9 n 2, 2 n 2 a 2 b, 3 ab 2

Simplifying by Combining Like Terms Consider the following algebraic expression: 3 a + 10 + 5 b + 6 a – 7 – 2 b

Simplifying by Combining Like Terms To add the like terms, simply add the coefficients. 3 a + 10 + 5 b + 6 a – 7 – 2 b 9 a

Simplifying by Combining Like Terms To add the like terms, simply add the coefficients. 3 a + 10 + 5 b + 6 a – 7 – 2 b 9 a + 3 b

Simplifying by Combining Like Terms To add the like terms, simply add the coefficients. 3 a + 10 + 5 b + 6 a – 7 – 2 b 9 a + 3 b + 3

In other words. . . To add the like terms, simply add the coefficients. 3 a + 10 + 5 b + 6 a – 7 – 2 b 9 a + 3 b + 3

Common Mistakes

We Try Together!

I Try It!

You try with a Shoulder Partner

You try INDEPENDENTLY!!!