Algebraic Expressions

Variable – is a letter or symbol that represents an unknown quantity. X y Z n t

Algebraic expression- containing at least one variable and does not contain an equal signEX: T + 3

When writing an algebraic expression, remember these items…

1. Decide on a variable to represent the unknown

= b P =

2. Decide what operation represents the situation

3. If possible, check your expression by plugging in values to see if the answer makes sense.

If given an expression and the value of the variable, simply plug the value in and solve.

m + 8 m = 22 + 8 = 10

Words That Lead to Subtraction

Decreased – Less – Difference Minus – How many more

Words That Lead to Division

Divided by – Quotient

Words That Lead to Addition

Sum – More than – IncreasedPlus – Altogether

Words That Lead to Multiplication

Times – Product – Of

Practice Problems

1. Five plus y

2. 6 times q

3. 2 less than x

Practice Problems

4. A cake will serve 12 people. Write an expression for how many people will C cakes serve?

Practice Problems5.The drama club sold

60 more tickets on Saturday as on Friday. Write an expression for the number of tickets sold on

Saturday.