Mathematics
Grade 10
15 min
Write variable expressions
Write variable expressions
Tutorial Preview
1
Introduction & Learning Objectives
Learning Objectives
Translate verbal phrases into algebraic expressions involving one or more variables.
Identify and define variables to represent unknown quantities in a given context.
Apply the correct order of operations when constructing complex expressions from verbal descriptions.
Write expressions to model real-world scenarios, including geometric formulas and financial situations.
Differentiate between a mathematical expression and an equation.
Use variables to represent quantities in geometric figures, such as side lengths and angles, in preparation for proofs and trigonometry.
Ever tried to calculate the cost of a pizza with multiple toppings or the area of a room you're redecorating? ๐ You're using algebra to translate real-world situations into math!...
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary
TermDefinitionExample
VariableA symbol, typically a letter, used to represent a quantity that is unknown or can change.In the expression `5x - 2`, the variable is `x`.
ConstantA fixed value that does not change within an expression.In the expression `5x - 2`, the constant is `-2`.
CoefficientThe numerical factor that is multiplied by a variable.In the expression `5x - 2`, the coefficient of `x` is `5`.
TermA single part of an expression, which can be a number, a variable, or a product of numbers and variables. Terms are separated by addition or subtraction signs.The expression `5x - 2` has two terms: `5x` and `-2`.
Algebraic ExpressionA mathematical phrase that contains one or more variables, constants, and operation symbols. It does not have an equals sign.`3a^2 + 2b - c` is an algebraic...
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Core Formulas
Keywords for Addition & Subtraction
Sum, increased by, more than: `a + b`. Difference, decreased by, less than: `b - a` (Note the order for 'less than').
These keywords translate directly into addition (+) or subtraction (-). Be very careful with the order of terms for phrases like 'less than' or 'subtracted from'.
Keywords for Multiplication & Division
Product, times, of: `a \times b` or `ab`. Quotient, per, ratio of: `a / b` or `a \div b`.
These keywords indicate multiplication (ร) or division (รท). 'Of' is commonly used with fractions, such as 'two-thirds of a number' meaning `(2/3)x`.
Keywords for Exponents & Parentheses
The square of, cubed: `x^2`, `x^3`. The quantity of: `(a + b)`.
Exponents represent...
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Challenging
A large square has a side length of `x`. A smaller square with a side length of `y` is cut out from the center of the large square. Which expression represents the area of the remaining piece?
A.x^2 - y^2
B.(x - y)^2
C.4x - 4y
D.2x - 2y
Challenging
An employee earns a monthly salary of `S` dollars. 18% of the salary is deducted for taxes, and then a fixed amount of $250 is deducted for health insurance. Which expression represents the employee's net monthly income?
A.S - 0.18 - 250
B.0.82S - 250
C.0.82(S - 250)
D.S - 18S - 250
Challenging
Let `2k` represent an even integer. Write a simplified expression for the product of the next consecutive even integer and the previous consecutive even integer.
A.4k^2
B.4k^2 - 2
C.4k^2 - 4
D.4k^2 + 4
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