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Writing Algebraic Expressions

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Writing Algebraic Expressions

Use variables to represent unknown amounts. Translate each situation into an algebraic expression; do not solve for the variable unless asked. Remember: “less than” can change the order of subtraction.

A. Translate the plan

Write an algebraic expression for each carnival situation. Use the variable named in the question.

1.A roll of tickets has t tickets. Emily gives away 9 tickets. Write an expression for the tickets she has left.

2.Each game costs 4 tickets. Write an expression for the cost of g games.

3.A prize box already has 12 small prizes. Volunteers add p more prizes. Write an expression for the total number of prizes.

4.There are 3 times as many blue tickets as red tickets. If r is the number of red tickets, write an expression for the number of blue tickets.

5.A volunteer has 20 paper cups and gives some away. If c is the number of cups given away, write an expression for the cups remaining.

B. Read the expression carefully

Use the menu below for Question 6. The table shows the ticket cost for one turn at each game.

Game

Tickets per turn

Ring toss

Beanbag toss

6.Amara plays ring toss r times and beanbag toss b times. Write an expression for the total tickets spent.

7.Which expression means “6 more than twice the number of game turns, n”?

2(n + 6)
2n + 6
6n + 2
n - 12

8.True or false: “8 less than a number x” is written x - 8.

TrueFalse

C. Explain and create

Show that you understand what each part of an expression represents.

9.In the expression 7m + 4, identify the variable, coefficient, and constant. Then say what the expression could represent if m is the number of prize bags and each bag contains 7 stickers.

10.Write a carnival situation that matches the expression 10 + 2k. Explain what the 10, 2, and k could mean.