Algebra STAAR Practice 1

Front

What is an algebraic expression?

Back

An algebraic expression is a mathematical phrase that can include numbers, variables, and operation symbols. For example, 3x + 5 is an algebraic expression.

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What does it mean to solve an equation?

Back

To solve an equation means to find the value of the variable that makes the equation true. For example, in the equation x + 3 = 7, solving for x gives x = 4.

Front

What is the distributive property?

Back

The distributive property states that a(b + c) = ab + ac. It allows you to multiply a single term by two or more terms inside a set of parentheses.

Front

What is a linear equation?

Back

A linear equation is an equation that makes a straight line when graphed. It has the form y = mx + b, where m is the slope and b is the y-intercept.

Front

What is the slope of a line?

Back

The slope of a line is a measure of its steepness, calculated as the rise over run (change in y over change in x). A positive slope means the line rises, while a negative slope means it falls.

Front

What is a function?

Back

A function is a relation that assigns exactly one output for each input. For example, f(x) = 2x + 3 is a function.

Front

What is the difference between an expression and an equation?

Back

An expression is a combination of numbers and variables without an equality sign, while an equation states that two expressions are equal, using an equality sign.

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What is a variable?

Back

A variable is a symbol, often a letter, that represents an unknown value in mathematics. For example, in the expression 2x + 3, x is a variable.

Front

What does it mean to factor an expression?

Back

Factoring an expression means to break it down into simpler components (factors) that, when multiplied together, give the original expression. For example, x^2 - 9 can be factored into (x - 3)(x + 3).

Front

What is the quadratic formula?

Back

The quadratic formula is used to find the solutions of a quadratic equation ax^2 + bx + c = 0. It is given by x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / (2a).