Virginia SOL 5.PFA.2.c
The Standard
Use an expression with a variable to represent a given verbal expression involving one operation (e.g., “5 more than a number” can be represented by y + 5).
Virginia Standards of Learning for Mathematics · The student will investigate and use variables in contextual problems.
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students turn a one-step verbal phrase into a mathematical expression using a letter for an unknown number. They select the operation and arrange the terms correctly.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students choose the correct operation and place the variable and number in the correct order. They can explain why n − 4 and 4 − n represent different phrases.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may add an equals sign, turning an expression into an equation. They may reverse subtraction or division, or treat phrases like “more than” as multiplication.
How to Assess It
- Exit ticket: Using n, write expressions for “a number divided by 6” and “10 minus a number.” Explain the order in the subtraction expression.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Give pairs number, variable, and operation cards, then read phrases aloud for students to arrange into matching expressions.
Ask students to write phrases for n − 4 and 4 − n, then explain why the expressions are different.
Play a card-matching game where students pair verbal phrases with expressions, checking each match with a partner.
Present a ticket price of t dollars plus a $3 fee, then have students write and explain the total cost expression.
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Related Standards
- 7.PFA.3.d
Write a two-step linear equation in one variable to represent a verbal situation, including those in context.
- 5.PFA.2.b
Write an equation (with a single variable that represents an unknown quantity and one operation) from a contextual situation, using addition, subtraction, multi...
- 6.PFA.3.e
Write a one-step linear equation in one variable to represent a verbal situation, including those in context.
- 7.PFA.2.b
Represent equivalent algebraic expressions in one variable using concrete manipulatives and pictorial representations (e.g., colored chips, algebra tiles).
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