📚 Topic Summary
Algebraic expressions are mathematical phrases that combine numbers, variables (like $x$ or $y$), and operations (like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division). When we encounter word problems, we need to translate the words into algebraic expressions to solve them. For example, "five more than a number" can be written as $x + 5$. The key is to identify the variables and the relationships between them.
Solving word problems involves understanding the context, defining variables, setting up equations or expressions, and then solving for the unknown. Practice is super important for getting comfortable with this!
🧮 Part A: Vocabulary
Match the term with its definition:
| Term |
Definition |
| 1. Variable |
A. A value that does not change |
| 2. Constant |
B. A mathematical phrase containing numbers, variables, and operations |
| 3. Coefficient |
C. A symbol (usually a letter) representing an unknown value |
| 4. Algebraic Expression |
D. A number multiplied by a variable |
| 5. Equation |
E. A statement that two expressions are equal |
✍️ Part B: Fill in the Blanks
Complete the following paragraph with the correct words:
In algebraic expressions, a ______ is a symbol that represents an unknown value. A ______ is a number that is multiplied by a variable. An algebraic ______ combines numbers, variables, and operations. A ______ is a value that remains the same. Solving word problems often involves translating them into algebraic ______.
🤔 Part C: Critical Thinking
Explain in your own words how you would translate the following sentence into an algebraic expression: "The sum of a number and twice that number is equal to fifteen."