Combining Like Terms
6-8
2
The Distributive Property
Lesson Details
Grade Level
6-8
Duration (minutes)
2
Summary
A grade 6-8 math lesson teaching the distributive property — multiplying a number by every term inside parentheses — using three worked examples and a numeric check to prove it works.
Student Worksheet: The Distributive Property
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:
• Distributive Property: a(b + c) = ab + ac — multiply the outside number by every term inside the parentheses.
• Middle Step: Write out each multiplication before simplifying, to avoid mistakes.
• Checking: You can plug in a number for the variable to confirm the original and expanded expressions match.
Instructions: Read each question carefully and write your answer in the space provided.
- Question 1: Distribute: 3(x + 4)
- Question 2: Distribute: 5(y − 2)
- Question 3: Distribute: 2(3x − 5)
- Question 4: Why is 3x + 4 an incorrect way to distribute 3(x + 4)?
- Question 5: If x = 2, show that 3(x + 4) and 3x + 12 give the same result.
Click to reveal Teacher Answer Key
1. 3x + 12
2. 5y − 10
3. 6x − 10
4. Because the 3 must multiply both terms inside the parentheses, not just the first one
5. 3(2 + 4) = 3(6) = 18, and 3(2) + 12 = 6 + 12 = 18 — both equal 18
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 4(2x + 3), and have them distribute it, then pick a value for x and check that the original and expanded forms give the same result.