Introduction to Algebraic Expressions

Name: _______________________________
Date: _______________________________

An algebraic expression uses letters (like x, n, or a) to represent unknown numbers. For example, "5 more than a number" can be written as n + 5.

Part A: Write the algebraic expression

Use the letter n to represent the unknown number.

1.
7 more than a number _______________________________
2.
A number minus 4 _______________________________
3.
A number multiplied by 6 _______________________________
4.
12 divided by a number _______________________________
5.
A number plus 15 _______________________________
6.
10 less than a number _______________________________

Part B: Real-world expressions

Write an algebraic expression for each situation. Use the letter shown in brackets.

7.
Sarah has some marbles. Her friend gives her 8 more. (m)
_______________________________
8.
A packet of biscuits costs $3. How much do some packets cost? (p)
_______________________________
9.
Tom had some stickers and gave away 5 to his brother. (s)
_______________________________
10.
A box contains some chocolates shared equally among 4 children. (c)
_______________________________

Part C: Write the word problem

Write a word problem or sentence to match each expression.

11.
x + 9
___________________________________________________________________
12.
20 - y
___________________________________________________________________
13.
5n
___________________________________________________________________