Key Words for Addition vs. Subtraction in Algebraic Expressions

📚 Addition in Algebraic Expressions

Addition in algebraic expressions involves combining terms. Think of it as putting things together! When you see certain keywords or phrases, it's a strong signal that you need to add.

• ➕ Plus: This is the most straightforward keyword. For example, "$x$ plus 5" translates to $x + 5$.
• ⬆️ Increased by: This indicates that a value is being added to another. "$y$ increased by 3" means $y + 3$.
• ➕ Sum: The sum of two or more terms means you need to add them together. "The sum of $a$ and $b$" is $a + b$.
• 🌱 More than: This keyword also implies addition. "6 more than $z$" translates to $z + 6$.
• 🤝 Combined: When things are combined, they are added. "$p$ combined with 7" becomes $p + 7$.

➖ Subtraction in Algebraic Expressions

Subtraction in algebraic expressions involves finding the difference between terms. This means taking one value away from another. Certain keywords are key indicators of subtraction.

• ➖ Minus: Similar to 'plus', 'minus' directly indicates subtraction. "$x$ minus 2" translates to $x - 2$.
• ⬇️ Decreased by: This signifies that a value is being subtracted from another. "$y$ decreased by 4" means $y - 4$.
• 📉 Difference: The difference between two terms means you need to subtract them. "The difference between $m$ and $n$" is $m - n$ (assuming $m$ is larger).
• 🌳 Less than: This is tricky because the order matters! "3 less than $z$" translates to $z - 3$.
• ✂️ Reduced by: Something being reduced indicates subtraction. "$p$ reduced by 1" becomes $p - 1$.

📊 Addition vs. Subtraction: A Keyword Comparison

🔑 Key Takeaways

• 🧐 Careful Reading: Always read the problem carefully to identify the keywords.
• ✍️ Translation: Translate the phrases into algebraic expressions accurately.
• 🚨 Order Awareness: Pay attention to the order of terms, especially with phrases like "less than."
• 💡 Practice: Practice translating word problems into algebraic expressions regularly.