Lesson 4: Multi-step Equations with Brackets

Please go through the following steps to complete Lesson 4.


STEP 1. Watch this short video from Mr H.

STEP 2. Read the following:

Lesson 4 adds one more level of complexity to equations--parentheses (i.e. brackets). To solve equations with parentheses, you'll need to apply the Distributive Law. Like the equations we worked with in the last lesson, it takes a few steps to solve them.

They have the forms a(x +b) = c and a(bx + c) = d(ex + f). Here's an example of each type:
  • 4(n - 2) = 28 (4 multiplied by a number decreased by 2 is 28) 
  • -2(6y + 3) = -3(5y - 3) (A number multiplied by 6 and increased by 3 then multiplied by -2 is equivalent to 5 times the number and decreased by 3 then multiplied by -3) 
You will learn that the Distributive Law turns these rather complex equations into the types you were solving in Lesson 3.

To succeed in this lesson, correctly solve 3 out of 4 equations on the lesson quiz.


STEP 3. Watch one or more of the following instructional videos on solving equations with brackets.
  • MathTV (series of short videos) - click on: 
    • Algebra - Linear Equations in one Variable - With Parentheses - equations 1 and 2 
  • Hegarty Maths (longer more detailed videos) - 

STEP 4. Make a choice.
Practice solving equations with parentheses at Interactive-Maths. Do one set of questions for practice. Solve the equations on paper, and remember to show your work!
  • Choose Simple Brackets and Variable on Both Sides with Brackets. Set yes/no parameters to Yes, No, No, Yes. 
OR...
Practice solving equations with parentheses in your textbook. Choose around 10 questions from p 319 #6-11. Check your answers to see if you're getting it!

STEP 5. Reflect. How did you do on the practice exercises? Does the Distributive Law make sense to you? Are you ready for the quiz, or do you need more review? Review more videos, try some more practice questions, or ask me any questions--as needed.


STEP 6. Write the Lesson 4 Quiz. Answer on paper, then compare your work to the answer key on the bottom of the quiz. If you get at least 3 correct and show the correct steps, you are ready for Lesson 5. If you get less than 3 correct and/or do not show correct steps to solve, please redo steps 3 to 5. Then retry the quiz.


STEP 7. Remember to show me your quiz score and any questions you still have.
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)