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Introduction to Variables
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Introduction to Variables
Read each item carefully. Use the variable named in the question, and show working where useful.
Understanding Variables
1.Which statement best describes a variable in algebra?
- A number that must stay the same
- A letter or symbol that stands for a value
- A sign showing which operation to use
- A tool for doing calculations
2.Give one everyday situation where a value is unknown or can change. Name a letter that could represent that value, and say what the letter means.
Spotting Variables
3.In the expression 6p + 9, identify the variable.
4.In the expression 8r − 3, identify the variable.
5.In the expression 2c + 5d, identify every variable.
6.In the expression 11 + q − 4, identify the variable.
7.Select every variable from this list: b, 12, ×, k, 0, w.
- b
- 12
- ×
- k
- 0
- w
Writing Algebraic Expressions
8.Write an expression for nine times a number n.
9.Write an expression for x increased by 11.
10.Write an expression for a number y decreased by 7.
11.Write an expression for twice a number a, then add 6.
12.A ticket costs $7. Write an expression for the cost, in dollars, of x tickets.
13.Tevita cycles d kilometres on Saturday and 4 kilometres on Sunday. Write an expression for her total distance in kilometres.
14.Rawiri is m years old now. Write an expression for her age in 3 years.
Match Words and Expressions
15.Match each description to its expression.
- Three times a number
- A number minus 8
- Five added to a number
- Half of a number
- 5 + x
- x ÷ 2
- 3x
- x − 8
Think and Evaluate
16.Explain one reason variables are useful in mathematics. Include an example of a value a variable could represent.
17.Write your own algebraic expression using at least one variable, then explain what it could represent.
18.When x = 6, evaluate 3x.
19.When x = 6, evaluate x + 9.
20.When x = 6, evaluate 4x − 5.
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