Year 7 - Maths
Simplifying by collecting like terms
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 simplify expressions by collecting like terms.
Key Notes
- Like terms and their coefficients can be identified.
- Like terms can be represented using a bar model.
- Like terms can be collected together, paying careful attention to coefficients.
- Expressions are easier to use once you have collected all the like terms.
Vocabulary To Learn
- Like terms: Like terms are terms that have the same set of variables and corresponding exponents.
- Simplify: Simplifying is to write an expression in the most efficient and compact form without affecting the value of the original expression.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Simplifying means just grouping the algebraic terms.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Solve this in steps: explain the method from this lesson and why each step matters.
Like terms and their coefficients can be identified. Like terms can be represented using a bar model.
2. Use this key word in a maths sentence and explain it clearly. 'Like terms'
Like terms are terms that have the same set of variables and corresponding exponents. Use this word when showing your method, then check your final answer is reasonable.
3. Spot and fix this common maths mistake.
Mistake: Simplifying means just grouping the algebraic terms. Correction: Remind pupils that fully simplifying means the expression cannot be simplified further.
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 before multiplying with multiple expressions Study Guide
- Substituting particular values Study Guide
Browse all guides in the Year 7 Maths guide library.