Florida B.E.S.T. MA.6.AR.1.4

Math6th GradeApply previous understanding of arithmetic expressions to algebraic expressions.

The Standard

Apply the properties of operations to generate equivalent algebraic expressions with integer coefficients.

Florida B.E.S.T. Standards for Mathematics

Teacher's field guide

What Students Need to Do: Students rewrite algebraic expressions without changing their value. They distribute integer factors, combine like terms, and rearrange terms using operation properties.
What Mastery Looks Like: A student can rewrite 3(2x - 5) + 4x as 10x - 15 and explain each step. The student can verify equivalence by substituting the same integer into both expressions.
Common Misconceptions: Students may distribute a factor to only the first term inside parentheses. They may combine unlike terms, lose negative signs, or add coefficients and exponents together.
How to Assess It: Use this exit ticket: Rewrite -3(2x - 5) + 4x - 7 in simplest form, name each property used, and verify with x = 2.

Lesson moves

Use algebra tiles, including negative tiles, to model 2(3x - 1) + x and rearrange them into an equivalent expression.
Ask students to compare 4(x + 3) and 4x + 3, then write an explanation identifying which expression is equivalent and why.
Play expression match with cards such as 5(x - 2) + 3x and 8x - 10, requiring students to justify each match.
Model four identical supply kits costing 3x + 2 dollars each, then compare 4(3x + 2) with 12x + 8.

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