Lesson 1: Some Vocabulary

What are Algebraic Expressions?
What are the Terms, Constant Term, Coefficient and Factors of an Algebraic Expression?

Terms
Constant Term
Coefficient
Factors

Interpret expressions that represent a quantity in terms of its context.
A.SSE.1a
Interpret parts of an expression, such as terms, factors, and coefficients.
A.SSE.2
Use the structure of an expression to identify ways to rewrite it

Lesson Description
This lesson introduces the formal terminology used to describe algebraic structures. Key concepts include:

Constants vs. Variables: Distinguishing between fixed values and placeholders for unknown quantities.

Anatomy of a Term: Identifying the coefficient (the numerical factor) and the variable part (the letter and its exponent).

Expression Structure: Differentiating between a single term, a binomial, and a polynomial.

Translation: Converting English phrases into mathematical symbols (e.g., recognizing that "the quotient of" implies division and "increased by" implies addition).

Purpose
The primary goal is to build mathematical literacy. Algebra is often described as a foreign language; without a firm grasp of vocabulary, students struggle to follow lecture instructions (e.g., "Identify the leading coefficient") or interpret word problems. This section ensures that students are not just performing "math tricks" but are understanding the underlying structure of the expressions they manipulate.

DOK Level: 1 & 2
DOK 1 (Recall): Students must be able to define terms like coefficient or constant and identify them within a given expression.

DOK 2 (Skill/Concept): Students must translate multi-step verbal phrases into algebraic expressions, which requires interpreting the relationship between different operations (e.g., "three times the sum of a number and four").

Class and Online Work

Section 2.1 You Try Page 56

Practice Problems

Textbook with guided class notes