Duyen's Algebra Post

Algebra consists of the following to consider it as algebra, but first what is "algebra"?
Algebra is writing mathematical phrases using letters to represent numbers and needs the following to make it algebra:

Variable - a letter that represents a number in an algebraic equation or expression
Examples: n/3=5, 2x=8, etc.

Constant - the integer in an algebraic equation or expression.
Examples: 73 - a= 70, 53g = 106, etc.

Expression - pattern - many answers
Examples: 1 + m, 2f, etc.

Equation - only has one answer and an equal sign (=)

Examples: h + 100= 170, -5j= -25, etc.

Steps To Find Equality For One Or Two Step Algebraic Equations

1. isolate variable
2. cancel using opposite
3. balance - do the same operation on the other side of equal sign (=)
4. verify to check (equality)

Sounds easy right? So here are some questions to see if you really know what you're doing is correct. Refer to the rules or steps above if you forget. Good luck!

* Remember that a rectangular x algebra tile, green (positive) or white (negative) has no value. x only represents an unknown number, but each square algebra tile represents a positive (green) or a negative (white) one. Also don't ever use algebra tiles to verify your answer.

Solving One-Step Equations

Question #1

3 + x= 5

3 -3 + x= 5 -3

x = 2

3 + x = 5

3 + 2= 5

5 = 5

Question #2

n - 7 = 5

n - 7 + 7= 5 + 7

n = 12

n - 7 = 5

12 - 7= 5

5 = 5

Solving Two-Step Equations

Question #3

3x - 2 = 16

3x - 2 + 2= 16 +2

3x = 18

3x /3= 18/3

x = 6

3x -2 = 16

3(6) - 2= 16

18 - 2 = 16

16 = 16

Question #4

x/2 + 1= 2

x/2 + 1 - 1= 2 - 1

x/2 = 1

x/2 x 2 = 1 x 2

x = 2

x/2 + 1= 2

2/2 + 1= 2

1 + 1= 2

2 = 2

Here are some links to help you with your upcoming exams or tests on solving one or two step algebraic questions.

• Wired Math a site that consists of Grade 8 math including solving algebraic equations
• Math Goodies a site with all types of math information
• Khan Academy a site that has everything involving math including video tutorials

Solving One-Step Equations Video - Khan Academy

Solving Two-Step Equations Video

"I hope that you enjoyed my algebra post and feel free to comment on any mistakes I made, and please do give suggestions because I appreciate your help. Also comment on the highlights of my post." - Duyen Chau 8-14