Algebraic Techniques 1 Vocabulary: algebra symbols difference pronumeral algebraic expression quotient terms simplify operations like terms product constant sum unlike terms
What is Algebra? Algebra is a way of using pronumerals (normally letters) to represent numbers. You are already familiar with this… What is the size of the angle? 5 + □ = 8. What is the value which goes in the box? Why use x?
Concept of a Pronumeral A pronumeral is a letter which represents a number. The value of a pronumeral changes depending on the situation.
Simplifying multiplications: Simplify these algebraic expressions. a 5 × k b k × 5 c k × m d k × k e 5 × k × m f 3 × q + 1 g 5 × m − 7 × n h n × m
Simplifying Divisions:
Using grouping symbols We can leave out the multiplication sign between a numeral and a grouping symbol, or between a pronumeral and a grouping symbol.
Adding and Subtracting Terms Only terms with exactly the same pronumeral part can be added or subtracted.
Writing expressions