How to write Expressions

The letters and numbers in an expression are known as terms (see above for the definitions) for example, 5a + 6, "5a" and "6" are terms. An expression is a collection of terms, for example 2a+3a or 4g-2g+g.

Example 1

Have a go at the questions on the right on simplifying algebraic expressions. Make sure to read the questions carefully!

Example 2

Revise using the EdPuzzle activity below based on algebraic expressions.
The video will pause when a question is asked allowing you to answer the question. If you're unsure about any of the questions or answers, please speak to your maths teacher. 

Example 3

Pens at a stationery company are packaged in 6s and rulers are packaged in boxes of 10.
A teacher orders a pack of pens and a pack of rulers.
​Write an expression for the total number of pens and rulers ordered.
How to Solve:
  • Firstly, assign letters to the items: P for pens and R for rulers.
  • There are 6 pens in each box, so this can be written as  6p 
  • Rulers are boxed in 10s, so the total amount of rulers is which is 10r 
  • Find the total by adding the pens and rulers: 6p + 10r​
Sorry! It does not look like we have any more activities for this topic, however, you can use the tools below to aid your revision...