Expressions
What is an Expression?
An expression is a combination of numbers, symbols, and operations (like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) that represents a mathematical computation. It does not have an equals sign, so it does not represent a specific value.
Parts of an Expression
Expressions can contain:
- Numbers: These can be whole numbers, decimals, or fractions.
- Variables: Symbols (like x or y) that represent unknown or changing values.
- Operations: Symbols like +, -, *, and / that indicate the mathematical operations to be carried out.
- Exponents: Represented by a base number raised to a power (e.g. 23).
- Grouping Symbols: Parentheses or brackets to indicate the order of operations.
Types of Expressions
There are different types of expressions:
- Numeric Expression: Contains only numbers and operations (e.g. 5 + 3 * 2).
- Variable Expression: Contains variables, numbers, and operations (e.g. 3x + 7).
- Algebraic Expression: Contains variables, numbers, operations, and exponents (e.g. 2x2 - 5x + 3).
How to Simplify Expressions
To simplify an expression, follow the order of operations (PEMDAS):
- Parentheses: Simplify expressions inside parentheses first.
- Exponents: Perform operations involving exponents.
- Multiplication and Division: Perform these operations from left to right.
- Addition and Subtraction: Perform these operations from left to right.
Practice Problems
Simplify the following expressions:
- 4 + 3 * 2
- 5x - 2(x + 3)
- 2(3x2 - 4) + 5x
◂Math Worksheets and Study Guides Fifth Grade. Algebra
Study Guide
Algebra 
Activity Lesson
Algebra Activity Lesson
Algebraic Expressions Activity Lesson
Combining Like Terms Activity Lesson
Building a Nest Egg Worksheet/Answer key
Algebra Worksheet/Answer key
Algebra Worksheet/Answer key
Algebra Worksheet/Answer key
Introduction to Algebra Worksheet/Answer key
Equation Riddles Worksheet/Answer key
Inequality Graphs Worksheet/Answer key
Adding Integers Vocabulary/Answer key
Algebra
Activity LessonActivity LessonActivity LessonActivity LessonWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyWorksheet/Answer keyVocabulary/Answer keyThe resources above cover the following skills:
Number and Operations (NCTM)
Understand meanings of operations and how they relate to one another.
Understand various meanings of multiplication and division.
Identify and use relationships between operations, such as division as the inverse of multiplication, to solve problems.
Connections to the Grade 5 Focal Points (NCTM)
Algebra: Students use patterns, models, and relationships as contexts for writing and solving simple equations and inequalities. They create graphs of simple equations. They explore prime and composite numbers and discover concepts related to the addition and subtraction of fractions as they use factors and multiples, including applications of common factors and common multiples. They develop an understanding of the order of operations and use it for all operations.