Math 7 Unit 6 Lesson 22 Combining Like Terms
In Unit 6 Lesson 22 of Math 7, you will learn about combining like terms. This concept is an important skill in algebra, which involves simplifying expressions by combining similar terms. Here's an explanation of how to approach combining like terms:
1. Understand the concept of like terms: Like terms are terms that have the same variable(s) with the same exponent(s). For example, 3x and 2x are like terms because they both have the variable x raised to the power 1. On the other hand, 3x and 2x^2 are not like terms because they have different exponents.
2. Identify the variables and exponents: Look at the expression you have been given and identify the variables and exponents involved. For example, if you have the expression 4x + 2y - 5x + 3y, the variables are x and y.
3. Combine the coefficients: To combine like terms, add or subtract the coefficients (the numbers in front of the variables) while keeping the variables unchanged. In the example above, combine the x-terms: 4x - 5x = -x. Similarly, combine the y-terms: 2y + 3y = 5y.
4. Put it all together: After combining the coefficients, write down the result in terms of variables. In our example, the simplified expression is -x + 5y.
Remember to pay attention to positive and negative signs while combining like terms. Positive coefficients are added, and negative coefficients are subtracted.
It is essential to practice combining like terms with various expressions to become proficient in this skill. Work through multiple examples and challenges in your textbook or ask your teacher for additional practice materials.