Virginia SOL 8.PFA.1

8.PFA.1 is a Standards of Learning standard. These are the knowledge and skills expectations under it.

• 8.PFA.1.a

  Represent algebraic expressions using concrete manipulatives or pictorial representations (e.g., colored chips, algebra tiles), including expressions that apply...

• 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 ...

01

What Students Need to Do

Students use algebra tiles or drawings to show one-variable expressions. They expand grouped terms, combine like terms, and use operation rules to create simpler equivalent expressions.

02

What Mastery Looks Like

Students can model an expression with tiles or a drawing and write the matching symbolic expression. They correctly distribute, combine like terms, and simplify expressions with integer or rational coefficients.

03

Common Misconceptions

Students may combine unlike terms, such as 3x + 4 becoming 7x. They may distribute to only the first term, lose negative signs, or apply operations in the wrong order.

04

How to Assess It

On an exit ticket, ask students to draw algebra tiles for 2(x + 3) - x, simplify it, and write another equivalent expression.

1. 01

   Give pairs algebra tiles to model 3(x - 2) + 2x, expand the groups, and combine tiles to find a simpler expression.

2. 02

   Ask, "Why are 4(x + 3) and 4x + 3 not equivalent?" Students explain using distribution and test x = 2.

3. 03

   Run a card sort matching expressions such as 1/2(6x + 4) - x with simplified forms, then have partners justify each match.

4. 04

   Model two months of a phone plan with a $12 fee and $3 per gigabyte by comparing 2(12 + 3x) with 24 + 6x.

• 7.PFA.2.c

  Simplify and generate equivalent algebraic expressions in one variable by applying the order of operations and properties of real numbers. Expressions may requi...

• 7.PFA.2

  The student will simplify numerical expressions, simplify and generate equivalent algebraic expressions in one variable, and evaluate algebraic expressions for ...

• 7.PFA.2.b

  Represent equivalent algebraic expressions in one variable using concrete manipulatives and pictorial representations (e.g., colored chips, algebra tiles).