Any time we create a mathematical expression that contains even just a single variable we would refer to this as a variable expression. I call the problems found on these worksheets as Plug-in-Chug math. You will be given a basic or complex expression and a value for each of the variables in the expression. Students are to substitute the variables and their attributed values, then complete each of the operations to come to a final answer. I often remind students to work with one variable at a time, such as replace all the x variables, and then move on to the y variables. This often will result in less simple mistakes. Students will work on converting word problems, plugging in variable values, and more.
These worksheets explain how to evaluate variable expressions, solve them when given the values of the variables, and rewrite sentences as equations and algebraic equations. You will start by learning how to evaluate them and interpret their meaning. The first step is to learn how to replace a symbol with a number. The second step is to determine the operations that arise after this substitution has been achieved. We then learn how to write a math statement in full symbol form. Students will work through a plan that has previously been setup for them. The goal is be able to identify when an exponent exists and how to translate it. We will finish off by learning how to identify the differences between expressions and simple variables.