Combining Like Terms: Using the Commutative and Associative Properties

This lesson teaches how to combine like terms using the commutative and associative properties. The commutative property allows terms to switch places, while the associative property allows grouping of terms without changing the result. Through examples involving cookies and boxes, students learn to identify and combine like terms, ensuring only similar items are added together. The lesson emphasizes understanding these properties to simplify expressions and solve problems effectively.

What is the main idea behind the commutative property?

• Adding different types of terms

• Switching terms around

• Grouping terms together

• Subtracting terms

Which of the following expressions demonstrates the associative property?

• Both B and C

• (7 + 3) + 8

• 7 + (3 + 8)

• 7 + 8 + 3

Why can't you combine cookie boxes with individual cookies?

• They are both cookies

• They have different colors

• They are not like terms

• They are both boxes

How does the commutative property help in simplifying expressions?

• By allowing terms to be grouped

• By allowing terms to switch places

• By removing terms

• By changing the value of terms

What is the result of combining 9 vanilla cookies and 4 vanilla cookies?

• 13 cookies

• 12 cookies

• 15 cookies

• 14 cookies

Can you combine 8 blue boxes with 2 green boxes? Why or why not?

• No, because they may contain different amounts

• No, because they are different colors

• Yes, because they are both boxes

• Yes, because they are both cookies

What is the final result of combining 8 blue boxes, 2 green boxes, and 14 chocolate cookies?

• 10 boxes and 16 cookies

• 10 boxes and 14 cookies

• 8 boxes and 16 cookies

• 8 blue boxes, 2 green boxes, and 14 cookies