Simplifying Expressions

• When we simplify an expression, we remove any parentheses and combine all like terms

• We can use properties such as the Commutative and Distributive Properties

• Remember, like terms are terms that have the same variable or are constants.

• For example, 3x and 5x are like terms because they both have 'x'.

• Also, 8 and -10 are like terms because they are both constants.

Simplifying Expressions

• When we write an expression in simplified form, it is called STANDARD form

• The opposite of standard form is expanded form

• 8a + 3a is an expression in expanded form.

• 11a is that same expression in standard form.

Simplifying Expressions Using the Distributive Property

• "Distributing" a number means you are multiplying EACH term on the inside of the parentheses by the number on the outside.

• Be careful of your signs!

Factored Form

• Find a common factor between the terms

• Divide each term by that factor

• The common factor goes on the outside of the parentheses and the quotients go on the inside.

Equations

• Equations are statements of equality

• The left side must = the right side

• To check if a number is a solution to the equation, substitute it in the equation and check to see if the left = right.