Simplifying Algebraic Expressions

Remember to take note of the salient points in simplifying algebraic expressions on your notebook.

Step 1

Find out how to combine like terms using the following sites: Read and accomplished what you have to accomplish on these sites.

Focus Question: How will you combine like terms?

1) http://mathstar.lacoe.edu/lessonlinks/menu%5Fmath/simp_combo.html (Accomplish Make It a Combo Activity)

2) http://mathstar.lacoe.edu/lessonlinks/menu%5Fmath/poly_prepare.html - (Preparing Ingredients Activity)

3) http://mathstar.lacoe.edu/lessonlinks/menu_math/poly_recipe.html (Recipe for success)

Step 2

Find out how to use the distributive property in simplifying algebraic expressions. Use the video resource No. 1 and 2 at the bottom of this page. You may also get more information about the distributive property on other sites.

Focus Question: When will you use the distributive property?
                          What operation/s is/are used in using the distributive property?
                         
Step 3 - Simplifying Expressions Using Both Combining Like Terms and Distributive Property

Find out how to simplify expressions by combining like terms and by using the distributive property using the video on this page. 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IIDTlgvo0DM&NR=1&feature=fvwp

Step 3

Together with a partner, answer the following practice exercises in the following sites:

Write on you paper your score in every practice exercise and have it signed by a classmate.

Exercise No. 1             Score                  Signature
-----                            ------                 ------------

http://www.slidermath.com/rpoly/Polyt5.shtml

http://www.hstutorials.net/dialup/distributiveProp.htm

http://www.onlinemathlearning.com/distributive-property-math.html

http://www.proprofs.com/quiz-school/story.php?title=simplifying-algebraic-expressions

Step 4

Make your own step in simplifying algebraic expression and give some tips on how to combine like terms and how to use the distributive property in simplifying algebraic expressions.