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Pre-Algebra - Core Concept Cheat Sheet
01: Introduction to Pre-Algebra
Key Terms Concept Map • Algebra: a branch of mathematics in which symbols, usually letters of the alphabet, are used to represent numbers and quantities. • Algebraic expression: a quantity that combines variables, numbers, and operation symbols. • Area: the amount of space inside a two-dimensional shape. • Equation: a mathematical statement in which two or more expressions are set equal to each other. • Inequality: a mathematical statement comparing two or more expressions using <, >, ≤, and ≥. • Like terms: two or more terms that have the same variable raised to the same power. • Linear equation: an equation that represents a line. • Polynomial: an expression made up of terms containing variables with whole number exponents. • Probability: a number from 0 to 1 that tells how likely an event is to happen. Simplifying Algebraic Expressions • Real number: any number that can be represented with a To simplify an algebraic expression, perform all point on the real number line. possible operations and combine like terms.
Example: Simplify the expression.
5(x – 2y) + 4x Solution: • Solution of an Equation: the value that makes an 5(x – 2y) + 4x = 5x – 10y + 4x equation true when the variable is replaced by the value. = 5x + 4x – 10y • Term: a variable, number, or the product of a number and = (5 + 4)x – 10y a variable. = 9x – 10y • VANG: an acronym used to remember the four ways an algebraic relationship can be expressed: verbal, analytical, Calculator Tips numerical, and graphical. (–) – • Variable: a symbol that is used to represent a quantity. • Enter a negative number using , not . • Volume: the amount of space enclosed in a solid object. • Simplify numerical expressions before entering them into a calculator to reduce input errors. Evaluating Algebraic Expressions • Most calculators use order of operations to evaluate. Use To evaluate an algebraic expression, substitute a given parentheses when necessary. number for each variable and find the value of the • Make sure all parenthesis pairs are complete: each set resulting numerical expression. contains a left and a right parenthesis. Example: Evaluate the expression for the given values. Tips and Reminders 2m – 3n + 7 for m = 8 and n = 5 • Pre-Algebra prepares students for the study of Algebra. Solution: • The study of Algebra causes the brain to work like a muscle. 2m – 3n + 7 = 2(8) – 3(5) + 7 The more the muscle works out, the better it performs on = 16 – 15 + 7 other types of tasks.
= 8 • The VANG method looks at a situation verbally, analytically,
numerically, and graphically. Combining Like Terms • Pre-Algebra involves variables, terms, and expressions. To combine like terms, add the coefficients and keep • Combine like terms by adding their coefficients. the same variable and power. • Study daily and keep up the pace. Example: Combine the like terms. • Practice problem solving and do all assigned homework. 10u – 13v – 8u + 7v • Take notes in class and while reading the textbook. Solution: • Seek help from teachers and classmates. 10u – 13v – 8u + 7v = 10u – 8u – 13v + 7v • Connect new topics to things you already know. = (10 + (-8))u + (-13 + 7)v • Be persistent. = 2u – 6v • Believe in yourself. Keep trying and eventually you’ll get it. How to Use This Cheat Sheet: These are the keys related this topic. Try to read through it carefully twice then recite it out on a blank sheet of paper. Review it again before the exams.