Praxis Mathematics examination for teacher certification.
Algebraic thinking involves recognizing patterns, understanding variables, and solving equations. It’s not just about 'x' and 'y'—it’s about finding unknowns and making sense of relationships.
A variable is a symbol (like \( x \)) that stands for a number. Expressions are combinations of variables, numbers, and operations.
To solve an equation, find the value of the variable that makes the equation true. Remember: whatever you do to one side, do to the other!
Spotting patterns helps you predict future outcomes and solve problems faster.
Algebra helps you calculate how much money you’ll have after saving a certain amount each week, or predict when two people traveling at different speeds will meet.
Solving \( 2x + 5 = 15 \) leads to \( x = 5 \).
Recognizing that the pattern 3, 6, 9, 12... increases by 3 each time.
Algebraic thinking helps you solve for unknowns and understand patterns.