The Distributive Property
6-8
2
Combining Like Terms
Lesson Details
Grade Level
6-8
Duration (minutes)
2
Summary
A grade 6-8 math lesson teaching how to combine like terms in algebraic expressions, covering the matching rule (same variable and exponent), a five-step process, and two fully worked examples.
Student Worksheet: Combining Like Terms
Teacher Note: Students can watch the video lesson above and answer the questions. Click the “Teacher Answer Key” dropdown below when you are ready to review the solutions!
Key Concepts:
• Like Terms: Terms that have the exact same variable and exponent, like 4x and 2x.
• Not Like Terms: Terms with different variables (4x and 4y) or different exponents (3x and 3x²).
• The Process: Identify like terms, group them, combine coefficients, combine constants, write the simplified expression.
Instructions: Read each question carefully and write your answer in the space provided.
- Question 1: Simplify: 4x + 7 + 2x − 3
- Question 2: Simplify: 5y + 9 − 3y − 2
- Question 3: Are 3x and 3x² like terms? Why or why not?
- Question 4: Why is it wrong to say 4x + 7 = 11x?
- Question 5: When grouping terms like 4x + 7 + 2x − 3, what should you remember about the sign in front of a number?
Click to reveal Teacher Answer Key
1. 6x + 4
2. 2y + 7
3. No, because they have different exponents
4. Because 4x and 7 are different kinds of terms (a variable term and a constant) and cannot be combined
5. The sign in front of a number stays attached to it when you move or group it
Disclaimer: This worksheet was generated with AI assistance based on original video content. It is intended for educational reference only. Teachers are encouraged to review and adjust questions to fit their curriculum standards before classroom use.
🎯 Extension Activity: Give students a new expression, like 6a + 4 − 2a − 9, and have them identify the like terms, group them, and simplify on their own.