Pre Algebra Period 2 (Thursday)

Simplifying Variable Expressions 2-3
Review of Algebraic terminology:
In the expression, 3y + 5
3 is the coefficient (number attached to variable –
remember, "co" means to go along with)
y is the variable
5 is the constant (number not attached to variable)
terms are separated by ADDITION ONLY!

COMBINING LIKE TERMS:
1) Same variable (or no variable)
2) Same power

You can combine by addition or subtraction LIKE TERMS.
You cannot combine UNLIKE TERMS.

EX: 3a + 4a = 7a
but
3a + 4b = 3a + 4b
3a + 4a² = 3a + 4a²

YOU SHOULD ALWAYS COMBINE LIKE TERMS BEFORE YOU EVALUATE!
IT'S MUCH SIMPLER!
-25a + 5a - (-10a) when a = -14
First combine like terms: -10a
Then plug in for a = -14: -10(-14) = 140