ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSION
Algebraic expressions are the equations we get when operations along with subtraction, addition,
multiplication, division and many others. Are operated on any variable. For example, let us assume that
Samuel and Simon were playing with matchsticks and thought of forming number patterns using them.
James took eight [8] matchsticks and formed number the eight [8]. Simon added three[3] more
matchsticks to form a pattern with two 8’s. They realized that they can keep on adding three [3]
matchsticks in each round to make one extra “eight”. From this, they concluded that they need 8+ 3[n-1]
sticks, in general pattern with “ n” number 8’s. Here, 8+ 3[n-1] is called an algebraic expression. Below
are some types of algebraic expression.
ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSION TYPE ONE [1].
1. 2[4x-3]=16
Solution
2[4x-3]=16
Use 2 to open the bracket by multiplying it by the numbers in the bracket
4x-6=16
Group like-terms
4x=16+6
We had +6 because when negative [-] crosses equal sign [=], it becomes positive
4x=22
Divide both sides by 4
4x/4=22/4
Cross check
X=5.5
Algebraic expressions are the equations we get when operations along with subtraction, addition,
multiplication, division and many others. Are operated on any variable. For example, let us assume that
Samuel and Simon were playing with matchsticks and thought of forming number patterns using them.
James took eight [8] matchsticks and formed number the eight [8]. Simon added three[3] more
matchsticks to form a pattern with two 8’s. They realized that they can keep on adding three [3]
matchsticks in each round to make one extra “eight”. From this, they concluded that they need 8+ 3[n-1]
sticks, in general pattern with “ n” number 8’s. Here, 8+ 3[n-1] is called an algebraic expression. Below
are some types of algebraic expression.
ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSION TYPE ONE [1].
1. 2[4x-3]=16
Solution
2[4x-3]=16
Use 2 to open the bracket by multiplying it by the numbers in the bracket
4x-6=16
Group like-terms
4x=16+6
We had +6 because when negative [-] crosses equal sign [=], it becomes positive
4x=22
Divide both sides by 4
4x/4=22/4
Cross check
X=5.5
