Writing Algebraic Expressions

Writing Algebraic Expressions

• I will be able write an algebraic expression from a word phrase.

• I will be able to use precise mathematical language when identifying parts of an expression.

​Do you speak or read another language?

​Algebra and algebraic expressions are similar to translating words into another language!

​In English, we say the adjective or describing word BEFORE the subject.

​In Spanish, we say the adjective or describing word AFTER the subject.

​"The lady is pretty"

​"La dama es bonita"

Expressions vs Equations

Before solving an equation, it is helpful to simplify each expression.

We simplify by combining like terms... but what does that mean?

Key Words in Algebraic Expressions

Addition: sum, more, more than, plus, increased by, gain

Subtraction: difference, less, less than, minus, decreased by, loss

Multiplication: product, multiplied by, times, double, triple

Division: quotient, divided by, per, ratio, half, third, fourth, into, equal groups

Exponents: times itself, squared, cubed

Multiple Select

Which ones are expressions?

• 6x + 9 = 15

• 5 - 2x

• 8y (2y)

• 4m + 14

Multiple Select

Which ones are equations?

• 6x + 9 = 15

• 5 - 2x

• 8y (2y)

• 4m + 14 = 26

​Here are some key words that will translate to operations when you write an algebraic expression.

​How do switch words work?

​seven less than a number

​n - 7

​

​12 from a number

​n - 12

​

​3.5 less than a number

​n - 3.5

​

​4 from a number

​n - 4

​when you see "less than" or "from" you will switch the order that they are written and use subtraction.

Multiple Choice

What does "quotient" mean?

• add
• subtract 
• multiply
• divide

Multiple Choice

What does "product" mean?

• Multiply
• Divide
• Add
• Subract

Multiple Choice

Which term indicates that we should add?

• Increased by

• Less than

• Times

• Divided into

Multiple Choice

When we are translating words into algebraic expressions and the problem says ¨a number¨ I know that this means...

• To multiply

• To use a variable

• I can only use an x

• To skip the question

Multiple Select

Which words are "switch" words

• to

• by

• of

• from

• than

Multiple Choice

"Subtracted from" and "less than" are terms that mean you need to "turn around" or "flip" the terms around.

• True

• False

I Do - #1 thru 7

We Do-#8-14