Post #9 Expressions and Substitutions

INTRODUCTION TO ALGEBRAIC EXPRESSION

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.6.EE.A.2

Objective: 

• Introduce students to the mathematical language required to discuss algebraic expressions and to build fluency. 
• Identify parts of an expression using mathematical terms (sum, term, product, factor, quotient, coefficient).

First, I would provide my students with the basic information needed to provide a foundation for expressions using anchor charts.  The first anchor chart provides students with various terms used to describe expressions such as variable, algebraic expression, numerical expression, and evaluate. 

Next, I would use this anchor chart to teach the students how to translate word phrases into algebraic expressions.  

Next, I will provide my students with a visual breaking down the actual terms of an expression. I will differentiate the lesson by providing my audio and visual learners with a video on expressions.  www.khanacademy.org/math/cc-sixth-grade-math/cc-6th-expressions-and-variables/cc-6th-evaluating-expressions/v/expression-terms-factors-and-c






I DO, WE DO, YOU DO

Finally, to make sure my students have mastered the conceptual and procedural knowledge of expressions, I will provide my students with an activity.  The students will be required to place the expressions in the appropriate columns that I have provided.  These two expressions need to be properly placed in the designated columns within the chart to show that students understand the conceptual nature of expression. 

1. 5c-3cd+d  

2. d+2x-5c

Expression	Terms	# of Terms	Variables	Coefficients	Constant
3a+5b-7	(3a), (5b), (7c)	3	a,b,c	3,5,7

Reflection: In order for students to gain a full understanding of expressions, it is imperative that they must be provided with the foundations needed to build language and fluency with regard to these mathematical concepts before moving forward with other algebraic terms such as substitution. 

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