SSAT Upper Level Quantitative

A comprehensive course designed to help students excel in the quantitative section of the SSAT Upper Level exam.

Basic Concepts

Algebraic Expressions and Equations

Introduction to Algebra

Algebra helps us find unknown values, like figuring out how many candies are in a jar if you know the total weight.

Expressions vs. Equations

  • Expression: A combination of numbers, variables, and operations (like \( 3x + 2 \))
  • Equation: Two expressions set equal to each other (like \( 3x + 2 = 8 \))

Simplifying Expressions

Combine like terms and use the order of operations (PEMDAS: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction) to simplify.

Solving Equations

The goal is to find the value of the variable that makes the equation true.

Real-World Applications

Algebra is useful for budgeting, planning trips, and even coding video games!

Examples

  • If \( x + 5 = 12 \), then \( x = 7 \).

  • Simplifying \( 2x + 3x \) to \( 5x \).

In a Nutshell

Algebra lets you use symbols to solve puzzles and find unknowns in everyday situations.