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Algebraic Application Notes

The document provides a guide for solving word problems using algebraic equations by identifying key mathematical operations associated with specific keywords. It categorizes words that indicate addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, along with examples of how to translate these into mathematical expressions. Additionally, it includes important time-related words for age problems and describes relationships between consecutive numbers.

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Nana Greeves
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2 views2 pages

Algebraic Application Notes

The document provides a guide for solving word problems using algebraic equations by identifying key mathematical operations associated with specific keywords. It categorizes words that indicate addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, along with examples of how to translate these into mathematical expressions. Additionally, it includes important time-related words for age problems and describes relationships between consecutive numbers.

Uploaded by

Nana Greeves
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Understand the problem

- What is being asked?


- What information is given?

1. Choose a variable
Use simple wording: “Let the unknown be (x)”

2. Form the equation


Highlight keywords:
What it Means in an
Keyword Math Operation
Equation
sum + add the values
di erence − subtract
times × multiply
is = equals
more than + add to a number
less than − subtract from a number

APPLICATION (WORD) PROBLEMS USING ALGEBRAIC EQUATIONS

When solving word problems, words tell us what operation to use.


Use these key words to translate English into Maths.

WORDS THAT MEAN ADDITION

 sum
 total
 altogether
 combined
 increased by
 more than
 added to

Example:
“The sum of a number and 5” → x + 5

WORDS THAT MEAN SUBTRACTION

 difference
 minus
 decreased by
 less than
 fewer than
 take away
 reduced by
Important:
“5 less than a number” → x − 5
(not 5 − x)

WORDS THAT MEAN MULTIPLICATION

 product
 times
 multiplied by
 double (×2)
 triple (×3)
 twice
 of

Example:
“Three times a number” → 3x

WORDS THAT MEAN DIVISION

 quotient
 divided by
 per
 ratio
 out of

Example:
“A number divided by 4” → x ÷ 4 or x/4

TIME WORDS (VERY IMPORTANT IN AGE PROBLEMS)

 in ___ years → add


 after ___ years → add
 ___ years ago → subtract
 older than → add
 younger than → subtract

NUMBER RELATIONSHIP WORDS

 consecutive numbers → x, x + 1, x + 2
 consecutive even → x, x + 2, x + 4
 consecutive odd → x, x + 2, x + 4

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