Combining Like Terms

Let's review some terms that we will be using in the classroom :)

An expression contains numbers, variables, and operation symbols...NO EQUAL SIGN

A letter that stands for an unknown number.

VARIABLE TERM refers to the entire term that contains the variable (Ex: -8x)

When there is no number in front of the variable, there is a 1 there. (Ex: y is the same as 1y)

A number NOT connected to a variable.

Always include the sign before it .

Constants can be whole numbers, decimals, or fractions.

All constants are like-terms!

Use the signs in front of the terms.

Only terms that share the same variable (raised to the same power) can be combined.

Always ADD the terms together but remember to look at the signs before it!