An expression is a mathematical phrase that combines numbers, variables, and operation symbols (+, –, ×, ÷) but does NOT contain an equal sign (=).

An expression is like an incomplete sentence (phrase) in language.

A variable is a letter that represents an unknown value or values.

Use parentheses when you want to do something first. For example:

A movie ticket costs $9 and a large popcorn costs $7. Write an expression for the total cost for x friends to each get a ticket and one popcorn.

Use parentheses to find the sum of 9 and 7. Then, you would multiply by the unknown number of friends (f)

* DO NOT USE x for multiply. Use a dot or parentheses or a variable next to a number

1. Check-your-understanding questions:

Do your own, you choose where to start, check your work with the students around you. If you need help, get help. If someone needs help, give help.

2. Make sure that you have notes in your math notebook (things to remember)

3. If you get stuck, choose to persevere: review your thinking, try another approach, ask for help, search