← Chapter 56 Chapter 57: Creating Algebraic Expressions from Words Section 5 →

Chapter 57: Creating Algebraic Expressions from Words

✏️ Explanation

Translate word problems into algebraic expressions by identifying variables, operations, and relationships described in words.

More than / Plus
+
Less than / Minus
-
Times / Product
×
Divided by
÷
Squared
²
A number
x

🔍 Why It Matters

Essential skill for solving real-world problems using algebra.

✏️ Worked Example

"Three more than twice a number"
Step 1: Define the variable
Let the number = x
Step 2: Find "twice the number"
Twice the number = 2x
Step 3: Add "three more"
Three more = +3
Step 4: Combine
2x + 3

🔢 Practice Exercises

1. "Five less than a number"
Answer:
2. "The product of a number and 7"
Answer:
3. "A number divided by 4"
Answer:
4. "Six more than three times a number"
Answer:
5. "The square of a number minus 8"
Answer:

⚠️ Common Mistakes

  • Wrong order (5 less than x = x-5, not 5-x)
  • Confusing "times" with "more than"
  • Not defining variables clearly

✨ Quick Summary

Define variables first. Translate operations carefully. Check order matters.

🎉 Section 4 Complete!

Congratulations! You've mastered basic algebra. Ready for the next challenge?
Continue to Section 5 →