Using the Distributive Property to Simplify Algebraic Expression

Using the Distributive Property in Algebra

Let's Review!

When we have an expression like 4(3a + 3), we can use the Distributive Property to simplify!

• Multiply the terms in parentheses (3a + 3) each by the term outside of the parentheses (4)

• 4(3a + 3) = 4 x 3a + 4 x3

• 12a + 12

We can use the Distributive Property

with more complex expressions, too!

x(y + z) = xy + xz

4 (2a + 3a + 4) + 6b =

4 x 2a + 4 x 3a + 4 x 4 + 6b =

4 x 5a + 16 + 6b =

20a + 6b + 16

(remember to keep all variable terms together before constants!)

IXL | Expanding expressions

You can open this webpage in a new tab.

Copy link

Open in new tab

​Let's Do Some Independent Practice!

Extra Practice Worksheet - Google Classroom - Extra Practice Worksheets: Using the Distributive Property

Small Group Check-Ins

during Independent Practice Time