1. Chapter 3-2 Simplifying Algebraic Expressions
Unit 1
Chapter 3-2 Simplifying Algebraic Expressions

2. Vocabulary:
Term – when a plus or minus signs separate an algebraic expression into parts
Coefficient – A number that multiplies a variable
3 terms
7A + A + 9
7 is the coefficient of 7A is the coefficient of X because X = 1X
Like terms – have identical variables
Constant – A term with no variable
Like Terms
6X X+ 2X
Constant

3. Identify the terms, like terms, coefficients, and constant Ex
Identify the terms, like terms, coefficients, and constant Ex.1) 3m – 2n + n – 4 Terms: 3m, -2n, 1n, -4 Like terms: -2n and n Coefficients: 3, -2, 1 Constant: - 4 Ex 2) 4Y + 2X -7 Terms: 4Y, 2X, -7 Like terms: none Coefficients: 4, 2 Constant: -7

4. Simplest Form
You simplify an expression by using Distributive Property to combine like terms.
If an expression has no like terms and no parenthesis, then it is considered written in simplest form.
Simplify each expression
2X + 6X
=8X (since 2X and 6X are like terms, then add)
B) 6N N
= 6N + 3N + 4 (Combine 6N and 3N since they are like terms)
= 9N +4

5. Let’s try some examples
Identify the terms, like terms, coefficients, and constant Ex 1) 2 – 3A + 4B Simplify each expression Ex 2) F+F+F Ex 3) H + 5H – 3 – 6H Ex 4) 9 – X – 3(X+3)

6. Let’s check our answers
Identify the terms, like terms, coefficients, and constant
Ex 1) 2 – 3A + 4B
Terms: 2, -3A, 4B Coefficients: -3, 4
Like terms: None Constant: 2
Simplify each expression
Ex 2) F+F+F
= 3F
Ex 3) H + 5H – 3 – 6K
= 6H – 6K - 3
Ex 4) 9 – X – 3(X+3)
=9 – X – 3X – 9
= - 2X