Algebraic Expressions

Lesson Plan - Get It!

Audio:

Just like your face can show an expression of how you are feeling, a math expression shows the value of the numbers and symbols given.

In this lesson, you will review how to build, read, then solve an algebraic expression.

For a quick reminder and some hints on reading and building algebraic expressions, look at the notes below.

Following these simple steps will help you when you are writing equations:

1. You want to identify the unknown, which is the variable.

Example: A number increased by 3 is 8.

You are trying to find out what number is increased by 3.

2. Let "X" stand for the unknown number.

Rewrite the sentence. (You can use any letter to stand for the variable, but "X" is the most common.)

X increased by 3 is 8.

3. Now, look for keywords that help you finish writing the number sentence (equation).

X increased by 3 is 8.

Increased by tells us that it is an addition problem.

By tells us to use the equal sign.

4. Fully write out the equation:

x + 3 = 8

The following KEYWORDS will help you write expressions:

Listen to Julie Harland, Your Math Gal, in Translating words into algebraic expressions (below), explain in more detail how to translate words into algebraic expressions.

Be sure to try to solve them on your own before she solves the problems for you! You can reference the KEYWORD chart for help:

When you are finished, continue on to the Got It? section to play some learning games!