Simplifying Expressions: Combining Like Terms

This lesson focuses on adding and subtracting integers and variable terms to simplify algebraic expressions. It includes an introduction to the lesson goals, an overview of the agenda, and a detailed explanation of combining like terms. Students are guided through practice problems, with emphasis on organization and accuracy. The lesson concludes with advanced practice problems and a closing reflection question.

What are the main goals of Lesson 20a?

• To add and subtract integers and variable terms

• To solve quadratic equations

• To learn multiplication and division of integers

• To understand the properties of exponents

When combining like terms, what must be the same for the terms to be added or subtracted?

• The signs

• The coefficients

• The variables and their exponents

• The constants

How do you handle the signs when combining like terms?

• Ignore the signs

• Only consider the positive signs

• Include the sign to the left of each term

• Only consider the negative signs

What is the purpose of using a T-chart when simplifying algebraic expressions?

• To separate the terms based on their coefficients

• To organize the terms and keep x terms separate from integers

• To solve the equations faster

• To check for errors in the calculations

In the expression -3x + 4 + 5x - 7, what is the simplified form?

• 2x + 11

• 8x + 11

• 8x - 3

• 2x - 3

In the expression 2x + 3x, what is the simplified form?

• 5

• 6

• 6x

• 5x

In the expression 4 + 1, what is the simplified form?

• 6

• 4

• 5

• 3

What should you do if you get 0x in your simplified expression?

• Ignore the 0x term

• Multiply it by the integer term

• Combine it with the integer term

• Leave it as 0x

What is the simplified form of 9y + 2y?

• 7

• 11y

• 11

• 7y

What advice would you give to avoid mistakes when simplifying expressions?

• Always use a calculator

• Ignore the signs

• Keep your work organized and include the signs

• Combine all terms regardless of their type