By Shannon
In 7th Grade math, students are developing their understanding of simplifying expressions and learning how variables can be manipulated. We defining vocabulary like variables, terms, constants, and coefficients. We are learning what it means to ‘combine like terms.’ In addition, students are learning various methods to multiply variables including the generic rectangle method, FOIL method, distributing, and using the Algebra Tiles to not only multiply but also factor. Algebra Tiles allow students to visually see variables combining, multiply, and changing without getting lost in the mental math and memorizing the rules. Students took their first quiz this week and we will continue building understanding in this intro to variables unit!