Modeling of the distributive law using algebra tiles

1. Expressions Busting the brackets

2. First review …

3. 2n + 3 – 5n - 1 Means Which simplifies to: -3n + 2

4. And …….. 2 x 3 really means …. Two GROUPS of 3

5. 2(n+3) would mean Two groups of n + 3 Which simplifies to 2n + 6

6. With your partner try these with the algebra tiles: 3(n + 2) and 2(-4n + 3)

7. 3(n + 2) 3 groups of n + 2 3n + 6

8. 2(-4n + 3) Two groups of -4n + 3 -8n + 6

9. What about if there is a negative? Example: -2(5x + 1)

10. The negative tells us to find the “opposite” The opposite of 2  -2 The opposite of x  -x The opposite of 2n - 4  -2n + 4

11. -2 (5x + 1) Means ….. the opposite of 2 groups of 5x + 1

12. -2 (5x + 1) -10x - 2

13. Try this one: -3(2x – 1) The opposite of 3 groups of 2x – 1 -6x + 3