Why operations and algebraic thinking is important

Examples

Let’s solve some practice example questions that will help us to learn concepts better.

1. Evaluate the expression 4(9+6-2)

Solution

Let’s first evaluate the expression inside the parentheses. You should always solve the expression in parentheses first and then gradually move out. Here,

9+6-2=15-2

= 13

Now, multiply 4 to the evaluated term from the parentheses. 

2. Record the expression: Three times the sum of 68 and 28

Solution

Let’s focus on the latter part of the expression. You need the sum of 68 and 28. It can be written as 68+28.

Now, you know that this is not the final answer so you should put pare theses around this, i.e., (68+28).
 
According to the question, you need three times the sum of 68 and 28. So, the final recorded expression is 

3. Evaluate the two patterns and find the relationship between them.
    Pattern x : Starting number = 5, Rule = Add 5.
    Pattern y : Starting number = 10, Rule = Multiply 2.

Solution

Pattern x: You have to add 5 to the starting number 5. 

5+5=10

Pattern y : You have to multiply 2 with the starting number 10.

102=20

Pattern x evaluates to 10 and pattern y evaluates to 20. What is the apparent relationship between the two?