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Evaluating Algebraic Expressions
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Evaluate Evaluate has the word “valu” hidden inside
When you see the word “evaluate” – you know that your answer is going to be a value. Let’s try one. Evaluate 2xy – 3yz if x = 2, y = 5, and z = -3
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Bird’s nesting To evaluate this algebraic expression, we’re going to use a technique that I call “bird’s nesting”. It may sound silly but it will save you a world of hurt when it comes to sign mistakes.
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Evaluate 2xy – 3yz if x = 2, y = 5, and z = -3
I’m going to rewrite the expression, but every time I get to a letter, I’m going to insert an open ( ) instead the proverbial bird’s nest. 2( )( ) – 3( )( )
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See how the ( ) keeps everything straight!
Let’s meet our little feathered friends! x = 2, y = 5, and z = -3 2xy – 3yz And fly them into their nests 2( 2 )( 5 ) – 3( 5 )( -3 ) 4( 5 ) -15( -3 ) 65 -3( 5 ) = -15 2( 2 ) = 4 -15( -3 ) = +45 See how the ( ) keeps everything straight!
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Evaluating Algebraic Expressions
Expect a value for your answer. Replace all the letters with ( ) Fly the ‘birds’ into their ‘nests’ (be careful to get the right bird into the right nest!). Follow the order of operations and the rules of signed numbers.
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