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Using the State Curriculum: Mathematics, Grade 4

Algebra | Geometry | Measurement | Statistics | Probability | Number | Processes
Clarifications: Each clarification provides an explanation of the indicator/objective to help teachers better understand the concept. Classroom examples are often included to further illustrate the concept. While classroom examples could be shared with the students, the intended audience for the explanation/clarification is the classroom teacher-not the student. In addition, classroom examples may or may not reflect the assessment limits.

Standard 1.0 Knowledge of Algebra, Patterns, and Functions

Topic B. Expressions, Equations, and Inequalities

Indicator 1. Write and identify expressions

Objective b. Determine equivalent expressions

  • Use whole numbers (0 – 100)

Clarification

An expression is a relationship between quantities. Numerical expressions contain numbers and at least one operation and represent a single numeric quantity. For example, 20 - 6 is an expression that represents the number 14. Expressions do not contain an equal sign. At this level students should increasingly throughout the year be able to write expressions with all four operational symbols using whole numbers through 100.

Students often confuse expressions with equations and use the symbol = along with the expression. Equations include equal signs. Expressions do not contain equal signs.

Expression:  3 + 8
Equation:  3 + 8 = 11
Inequality:  3 + 8 > 9

Examples of Numerical Expressions:

3 + 6   21 ÷ 7   4 × (6+2)   8 - 5   

Classroom Example 1

Write an equivalent expression that would balance the scale.

geometric image

Sample answers:

2 × 25    5 × 10    48 + 2    47 + 3    51 - 1    52 - 2    100 ÷ 2    400 ÷ 8

(These are some possible solutions. Other solutions are possible as long as the quantity is equal to 50.)

Indicator Connection

Standard 6.0 Knowledge of Number Relationships and Computation/Arithmetic
C. Number Computation

The following example demonstrates the connection between this Algebra objective and the computation addressed in 6.C (Number Relations & Computation) objectives. Linking both objectives in instruction helps students build their understanding of both concepts and see the connections between Algebra and Number.

Classroom Example 2

Select operations that correspond to those currently being studied.

  1. Write two multiplication expressions equivalent to:
    • 100 - 25
    • 30 + 2
  2. Write two division expressions equivalent to:
    • 15 - 6
    • 10 × 2

Classroom Example 3

Find a number that makes the expression equivalent to 2×8.

geometric image
/toolkit/vsc/clarification/mathematics/grade4/1B1b.xml