Year 7 - Maths
Simplifying before multiplying 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 recognise when you can simplify before multiplying expressions by their respective terms.
Key Notes
- Collecting together like terms simplifies the expression.
- Simplifying may be possible before multiplication.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Term: A term is single number or letter, or the product of numbers and/or variables. Each term is separated by the operators + and –
- Expression: An expression contains one or more terms where each term is separated by an operator.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- 2(z+7)+3(z+7)+5(z+7) must be expanded first before simplifying.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
Collecting together like terms simplifies the expression. Simplifying may be possible before multiplication.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Term'
A term is single number or letter, or the product of numbers and/or variables. Each term is separated by the operators + and –. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: 2(z+7)+3(z+7)+5(z+7) must be expanded first before simplifying. Correction: Think of 'Unitising'. What is it we are adding together? In this case, we are summing multiples of (z+7). How many lots do we have?
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
- Multiplying and simplifying with multiple expressions 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 by collecting like terms Study Guide
- Substituting particular values Study Guide
Browse all guides in the Year 7 Maths guide library.