Algebra
The language of algebra

Algebra

• The language of algebra
• Substitution
• Multiplying algebraic terms
• Dividing algebraic terms
• Expanding brackets: the distributive law
• Factorising by finding the highest common factor

To be able to use algebra to solve problems, you first need to understand the language. Some common words that are used in this topic include:

• Variable: is an unknown value that is represented by a letter or symbol.
• ​Term: is an algebraic form separated by + or - signs, the signs being included.
• Like terms: are terms with the exact same variable form.
• Constant term: is a term that does not contain a variable.
• Coefficient: is the number factor of an algebraic term.
• Expression: is formed when terms are added or subtracted.
• Equation: joins two expressions with an equals sign.