Unlocking Expressions: The Distributive Property Adventure!

Mathematics Grades 6th Grade 2:09 Video
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Lesson Description

Learn how to simplify expressions using the distributive property. This lesson breaks down how to multiply a number by terms inside parentheses to make math problems easier!

Video Resource

Simplifying Expressions using Distributive Property | Expression & Equations | Grade 6

Math is Simple!

Duration: 2:09
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Key Concepts

  • Distributive Property
  • Terms
  • Simplifying Expressions

Learning Objectives

  • Students will be able to identify when to use the distributive property.
  • Students will be able to correctly apply the distributive property to simplify expressions.
  • Students will be able to simplify expressions involving positive and negative numbers using the distributive property.

Educator Instructions

  • Introduction (5 mins)
    Begin by reviewing the concept of simplifying expressions. Ask students what they already know about simplifying expressions and discuss the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS). Introduce the distributive property as a tool for simplifying specific types of expressions.
  • Video Viewing (5 mins)
    Play the YouTube video "Simplifying Expressions using Distributive Property | Expression & Equations | Grade 6" (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5GJ8UMUMP8). Instruct students to pay attention to how the distributive property is explained and the examples provided.
  • Guided Practice (15 mins)
    Work through several example problems on the board, similar to those in the video. Start with simpler examples and gradually increase the complexity. Emphasize the importance of paying attention to the signs (positive and negative) when distributing. For example: 2(x + 3), 5(2x - 1), -3(x + 4).
  • Independent Practice (15 mins)
    Provide students with a worksheet containing a variety of expressions to simplify using the distributive property. Include expressions with positive and negative numbers, as well as different variables. Encourage students to work independently, but allow them to ask questions if they get stuck.
  • Wrap-up and Assessment (5 mins)
    Review the key concepts of the distributive property and answer any remaining questions. Administer a short quiz (multiple choice or fill-in-the-blank) to assess student understanding.

Interactive Exercises

  • Distributive Property Matching Game
    Create a matching game where students have to match expressions like '3(x+2)' with their simplified forms like '3x + 6'.
  • Online Practice
    Use a website like Khan Academy to complete practice problems on the distributive property. This provides immediate feedback to the student.

Discussion Questions

  • What does it mean to simplify an expression?
  • Can you think of a real-world example where you might use the distributive property?
  • What are some common mistakes people make when using the distributive property?

Skills Developed

  • Applying the distributive property
  • Simplifying algebraic expressions
  • Attention to detail (especially with signs)

Multiple Choice Questions

Question 1:

What does it mean to 'distribute' in math?

Correct Answer: To multiply

Question 2:

Simplify: 2(x + 4)

Correct Answer: 2x + 8

Question 3:

Simplify: 5(y - 2)

Correct Answer: 5y - 10

Question 4:

Simplify: -3(a + 1)

Correct Answer: -3a - 3

Question 5:

What is the first step in simplifying 4(2x - 3)?

Correct Answer: Multiply 4 by 2x

Question 6:

Simplify: 1(x - 5)

Correct Answer: x - 5

Question 7:

Simplify: -2(b - 4)

Correct Answer: -2b + 8

Question 8:

Simplify: 6(c + 0)

Correct Answer: 6c

Question 9:

Simplify: 0(d - 7)

Correct Answer: 0

Question 10:

What property are you using when simplifying expressions?

Correct Answer: Distributive Property

Fill in the Blank Questions

Question 1:

The distributive property helps us __________ expressions.

Correct Answer: simplify

Question 2:

To distribute, you __________ the number outside the parentheses by each term inside.

Correct Answer: multiply

Question 3:

Simplify: 3(x + 2) = 3x + __________

Correct Answer: 6

Question 4:

Simplify: 4(y - 1) = 4y - __________

Correct Answer: 4

Question 5:

Simplify: -1(z + 5) = -z __________ 5

Correct Answer: -

Question 6:

When a number is right next to parenthesis it means to __________.

Correct Answer: multiply

Question 7:

The distributive property is a short cut to multiplying a sum by a __________.

Correct Answer: number

Question 8:

Numbers, symbols, and operators (like + and -) grouped together that show the value of something are called an __________.

Correct Answer: expression

Question 9:

The __________ of the terms inside the parentheses are important when distributing.

Correct Answer: signs

Question 10:

Simplify: 7(a + b) = 7a __________ 7b

Correct Answer: +

Educational Standards

6.A.2.1:Generate equivalent expressions and evaluate expressions involving positive rational numbers by applying the commutative, associative, and distributive properties and order of operations to model and solve mathematical problems. 6.A.3.1:Model mathematical situations using expressions, equations and inequalities involving variables and rational numbers. 6.N.2.3:Add and subtract integers in a variety of situations; use efficient and generalizable procedures including but not limited to standard algorithms.

Teaching Materials

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