Math Example: Language of Math--Numerical Expressions--Grouping Symbols--Example 8

Topic

Numerical Expressions

Description

This example demonstrates how to convert the verbal statement "Seventeen over the quantity twenty plus two" into a numerical expression. The solution involves replacing "over" with the division symbol and using parentheses to represent "the quantity". The resulting expression is 17 / (20 + 2), which clearly shows the order of operations to be performed.

Numerical expressions are a fundamental concept in mathematics, serving as a bridge between verbal descriptions and mathematical operations. This collection of examples helps teach students how to interpret and translate word problems into mathematical notation, a crucial skill for problem-solving in algebra and beyond. By practicing with various phrasings and operations, students develop the ability to recognize mathematical relationships in everyday language.

Providing multiple worked-out examples is essential for students to fully grasp the concept of numerical expressions. Each example reinforces the process of identifying key terms, understanding their mathematical meaning, and applying the correct symbols and grouping. This repetition helps students recognize patterns in language-to-math conversions, building their confidence and proficiency in translating complex verbal statements into precise mathematical expressions.

Teacher Script: "Let's look at this example together. When we see the word 'over', what operation does that suggest to you? And what do you think 'the quantity' means in math terms? Remember, we're trying to show the exact order of operations in our expression. How can we make sure the addition happens before the division?"

For a complete collection of math examples related to Numerical Expressions click on this link: Math Examples: Numerical Expressions: Grouping Symbols Collection.