Handout: Variable Vocabulary

Understanding the language of algebra.

Key Terms

Variable
A symbol (usually a letter like 'x' or 'y') that represents a number we don't know yet. It's a placeholder.
Expression
A mathematical phrase that contains numbers, variables, and operators (like +, -, x, ÷). Example: x + 5
Equation
A statement that two expressions are equal. It has an equals sign (=). Example: x + 5 = 10
Constant
A number on its own, whose value does not change. In "x + 5 = 10", the numbers 5 and 10 are constants.

Practice: Translate to Algebra

Read the sentence and write it as an algebraic expression or equation. Use 'n' as your variable.

  1. A number increased by 7.
    Answer: _________________________
  2. The product of a number and 4.
    Answer: _________________________
  3. A number decreased by 10 is 25.
    Answer: _________________________
  4. Five less than a number.
    Answer: _________________________
  5. A number shared between 3 people.
    Answer: _________________________