Virginia SOL 7.PFA.2.c
The Standard
Simplify and generate equivalent algebraic expressions in one variable by applying the order of operations and properties of real numbers. Expressions may require combining like terms to simplify. Expressions will include only linear and numeric terms. Coefficients and numeric terms may be positive or negative rational numbers.*
Virginia Standards of Learning for Mathematics · The student will simplify numerical expressions, simplify and generate equivalent algebraic expressions in one variable, and evaluate algebraic expressions for given replacement values of the variables.
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students rewrite one-variable expressions without changing their value. They apply operation order and number properties, distribute factors, and combine like terms with positive or negative rational numbers.
What Mastery Looks Like
- Students correctly distribute positive or negative rational factors, follow operation order, and combine variable terms and constants separately. They can produce another equivalent form and verify it using a replacement value.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may distribute a negative factor to the first term but not the second. They may combine unlike terms, such as 3x and 4, or mishandle fraction coefficients and negative signs.
How to Assess It
- Give: Simplify -3/4(8x - 4) + 2x - 5, then write another equivalent expression and name the properties used.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Use paper algebra tiles to model 3(x - 2) - 2x, then combine pieces and record each symbolic step.
Ask students to explain why 4x - 3 + 2x and 6x - 3 are equivalent without saying, "because I combined terms."
Run a card sort matching expressions such as -2(3x + 1) + x with their simplified equivalent forms.
Compare two phone plans by writing and simplifying expressions that include monthly fees, per-use charges, and discounts.
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Related Standards
- 7.PFA.2.d
Use the order of operations and apply the properties of real numbers to evaluate algebraic expressions for given replacement values of the variables. Exponents ...
- 7.PFA.2.a
Use the order of operations and apply the properties of real numbers to simplify numerical expressions. Exponents are limited to 1, 2, 3, or 4 and bases are lim...
- 7.PFA.3.b
Apply properties of real numbers and properties of equality to solve two-step linear equations in one variable. Coefficients and numeric terms will be rational.
- 8.PFA.1.b
Simplify and generate equivalent algebraic expressions in one variable by applying the order of operations and properties of real numbers. Expressions may need ...
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