1. Simplifying Algebraic Expressions
Lesson 10
Introductory Algebra
Simplifying Algebraic Expressions

2. Warm-Up
Evaluate each expression when x = 5.
4x + 7
x2 – 11
5(x + 3)

3. Simplifying Algebraic Expressions
Target:
Recognize and combine like terms
to simplify algebraic expressions.

4. Vocabulary Term: A number or a product of a number and a variable.
Constant: A term with no variable.
Like Terms: Terms that have the same variable.
Coefficient: The number multiplied by a variable in a term.

5. Example 1 Match pairs of like terms. 6x 2y 3m x 9 3m 5 14y
6x and x (also can be written 1x)
2y and 14y
3m and 3m
9 and 5

6. Example 2ab Simplify each algebraic expression by combining like
terms.
4x + 3x + 5x
12x
8y y +1
12y + 10

7. Example 2cd Simplify each algebraic expression by combining like
terms.
9m + 10p – 3p – 2m + 4m
11m + 7p
4d d – 12
5d + 0 5d

8. Exit Problems Simplify each expression. 3y + 2y + 8y 9x + 8w – 2x + w
3m + 4m – 7m

9. Communication Prompt
Write a few sentences about simplifying expressions.
Use the vocabulary words listed below in your sentences.
Term
Constant
Like terms
Coefficient