Year 7 - Maths
Multiplying and simplifying with multiple expressions
Expressions and equations
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit, pupils learn about generalisation and formal algebraic manipulation techniques such as substitution, collecting like terms and factorising.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to use the distributive law to multiply multiple expressions by their respective terms and then simplify by collecting like terms.
Key Notes
- An expression can be multiplied by any term.
- We may have more than one expression being multiplied by terms.
- Collecting together like terms simplifies the expression.
- It is important to be methodical to avoid losing terms.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Simplify: To simplify an expression is to write it in a more efficient and compact form without affecting the value of the original expression.
- Like terms: Like terms are terms that have the same set of variables and corresponding exponents.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Pupils may think 5(y+1)-2(y+3) = 5y+5-2y+6
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
An expression can be multiplied by any term. We may have more than one expression being multiplied by terms.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Simplify'
To simplify an expression is to write it in a more efficient and compact form without affecting the value of the original expression. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: Pupils may think 5(y+1)-2(y+3) = 5y+5-2y+6. Correction: Correct use of the distributive law with either algebra tiles or an area model will demonstrate why this is wrong.
More Lessons In This Unit
- Algebraic notation Study Guide
- Algebraic terminology Study Guide
- Checking understanding of expressions and equations Study Guide
- Factorising expressions Study Guide
- Generalised algebraic statements Study Guide
- Highest common factor with algebraic terms Study Guide
- Like terms Study Guide
- Multiplying an expression by a constant Study Guide
- Multiplying an expression by a term Study Guide
- Problem solving with expressions and equations Study Guide
- Representing a generalised number Study Guide
- Representing an unknown or variable Study Guide
- Securing understanding of expressions and equations Study Guide
- Simplifying before multiplying with multiple expressions Study Guide
- Simplifying by collecting like terms Study Guide
- Substituting particular values Study Guide
Browse all guides in the Year 7 Maths guide library.