Grade 6 Math: Algebraic Expressions

Writing Algebraic Expressions from Words: Addition

In this lesson, students begin to learn how to write algebraic expressions that are based on a single operation, either addition or subtraction.

In writing an expression, the first step is to choose a variable for the unknown value. The next step is to represent the relationship of that unknown to the known value.

To write expressions, the student must recognize from the text what relationship is specified and choose the operation appropriate to that relationship.

This process is usually referred to as “direct translation” of the elements of a situation into mathematical notation.

In the problems in this lesson, the student is given a verbal statement of a relationship between an unknown and a known value. The student must then write an expression that represents the relationship described.


Writing Algebraic Expressions from Words: Addition

In this lesson, students extend their knowledge of how to write algebraic expressions. They learn how to write algebraic expressions that are based on a single operation, either multiplication or division.

In the problems in this lesson, the student is given a verbal statement of a relationship between an unknown and a known value. The student must then write an expression that represents the relationship described.


Writing Algebraic Expressions from Words: Addition or Multiplication

No new concepts are introduced in this lesson. Instead, students must learn to discriminate between the verbal statements that are the basis for writing an expression, when the expression can include either addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.

When given problems of these four types, students must write the appropriate expression.


Writing Algebraic Expressions from Words: Both Addition and Multiplication

In prior lessons, students have learned to write algebraic expressions that include a single operation – either addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.

In this lesson, they learn to write algebraic expressions that include two operations – either addition or subtraction and multiplication or division.

In the problems in this lesson, the student is given a verbal statement that describes a relationship between an unknown and two known values. These values are related by two operations. The student must then write an expression that represents the relationships described.



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