Writing Algebraic Expressions
This Grade 6 algebra skill from Yoshiwara Elementary Algebra teaches students to write algebraic expressions from verbal descriptions. Students translate words and phrases into mathematical notation using variables, operations, and grouping symbols—a foundational skill for setting up equations and solving word problems.
Key Concepts
Property An algebraic expression is the same as an arithmetic expression, except that some of the entries are letters representing numbers. An algebraic expression, or simply an expression, is any meaningful combination of numbers, variables, and operation symbols.
To write an algebraic expression: 1. Identify the unknown quantity and write a short phrase to describe it. 2. Choose a variable to represent the unknown quantity. 3. Use mathematical symbols to represent the relationship.
Examples The phrase "a number x increased by 12" translates to the expression $x + 12$. To represent "8 times the price p", you write the expression $8p$. "The total cost C split among 4 friends" is written as the expression $\frac{C}{4}$.
Common Questions
How do you write an algebraic expression from words?
Identify the unknown quantity (assign it a variable), identify the operations described, and translate the phrase into symbols. For example, five more than twice a number is 2x + 5.
What words indicate addition in an algebraic expression?
Words like sum, plus, more than, increased by, and total indicate addition.
What words indicate multiplication in an algebraic expression?
Words like product, times, twice, double, and triple indicate multiplication.
What is the difference between three less than x and x less than three?
Three less than x means x - 3. But x less than three means 3 - x. Order matters when translating subtraction expressions.
Where is writing algebraic expressions taught?
Writing algebraic expressions is covered in the Yoshiwara Elementary Algebra textbook for Grade 6.