Writing Algebra the Short Way
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Grades 6–7 Math · Teaching handout
Writing Algebra the Short Way
Teaches how algebra is written: 3b for b + b + b and 3 × b, ab for a × b, a² for a × a, a/b for a ÷ b, and b for 1b.
Print handout
Your first print is free, with no sign-in. Then 10 sheets a month with a free account. Prints on Letter paper, or print on A4.
Print the answer key for Try it together
- Grades
- Grades 6 and 7
- Pages
- 1
- Time
- About 15 minutes
- Answer key
- Included, for Try it together
- Printing
- Tinted accents, also fine in black and white
What is on a handout
- The big idea: the rule, in a few short sentences.
- Watch me: worked examples, each with why it changes as it does.
- Watch out: the mistakes children often make, struck through beside the right answer.
- Try it together: a few items or problems to do as a class, with an answer key.
- On your own: the practice sheet that comes next.
How to teach with it
- Have students read each short form aloud the long way: 4q is four times q, d² is d times d. Saying it turns the rule into a habit.
- Read the big idea aloud, then work through Watch me together, saying why each one changes.
- Ask the class to find the mistake in each Watch out before you show the answer.
- Do Try it together as a class, check it with the answer key, then hand out the practice sheet.
Practice worksheets
After the handout, in this order: the main practice sheet first, then more practice, then quick checks.
