ELEMENTARY
ALGEBRA
10
, Overview
The Elementary Algebra section of ACCUPLACER contains 12 multiple choice Algebra
questions that are similar to material seen in a Pre-Algebra or Algebra I pre-college
course. A calculator is provided by the computer on questions where its use would be
beneficial. On other questions, solving the problem using scratch paper may be
necessary. Expect to see the following concepts covered on this portion of the test:
Operations with integers and rational numbers, computation with integers and
negative rationals, absolute values, and ordering.
Operations with algebraic expressions that must be solved using simple formulas
and expressions, adding and subtracting monomials and polynomials, multiplying
and dividing monomials and polynomials, positive rational roots and exponents,
simplifying algebraic fractions, and factoring.
Operations that require solving equations, inequalities, and word problems, solving
linear equations and inequalities, using factoring to solve quadratic equations,
solving word problems and written phrases using algebraic concepts, and geometric
reasoning and graphing.
Testing Tips
Use resources provided such as scratch paper or the calculator to solve the
problem. DO NOT attempt to only solve problems in your head.
Start the solving process by writing down the formula or mathematic rule
associated with solving the particular problem.
Put your answer back into the original problem to confirm that your answer is
correct.
Make an educated guess if you are unsure of the answer.
11
, Algebra Tips
Test takers should be familiar with the following concepts. For specific practice
exercises using these concepts, please utilize the resources listed at the end of this guide.
Understanding a number line Multiplying binomials
Adding and subtracting negative numbers Using proportions to solve problems
Using exponents Combining like terms
Finding a square root Evaluating expressions
Writing algebraic expressions Solving linear equations
Using parentheses in algebraic expressions Solving equations ,,,
Evaluating formulas
Practice Questions
Order of Operations
1. 3 72 2. 3 25 7
42 52
3. Please note: Multiplication signs
4 52 may take the form of an x , * , or
.
Scientific Notation
Write the following in Scientific Notation. Write in expanded form.
1. 0.00000000 00523 2. 6.02 1 011
Simplify. Write answers in scientific notation.
3 6
2. 6 1 0
9
1. 3 10 5 10
3 1 04
Substitution
Find each value if x 3 , y 4 , and z 2 .
5x z
1. xy z 4z 2. xy
12
, Linear equations in one variable
Solve the following for x.
1. 6x 48 6 2. 50 x 3x 2 0
Formulas
1. Solve PV nRT for T. 2. Solve y hx 4x for x.
Word Problems
1. One number is 5 more than twice another number. The sum of the numbers is 35.
Find the numbers.
2. Sheila bought burgers and fries for her children and some friends. The burgers cost
$2.05 each and the fries are $.85 each. She bought a total of 14 items, for a total
cost of $19.10. How many of each did she buy?
Inequalities
Solve and graph on the number line.
1. 2x 7 3
2. 3x 4 x 1 12
Exponents & Polynomials
Simplify and write answers with positive exponents.
24x4 32 x3 1 6x2
1. 3x 5x 6 5x 4x 4
2 2
2. 8x2
3. 5a 62
Factoring
1. x2 5x 6 2. 2x2 4x16
3. 4x2 36 4. 49y2 84y 36
Quadratic Equations
1. 4a2 9a 2 0 2. 3x 22 1 6
13