Understanding the Expression Evaluation in Ontario Math

Getting Comfortable with Expression Evaluation

Understanding how to evaluate mathematical expressions is a key skill for students, especially when gearing up for the Ontario Mathematics Proficiency Test. So, let’s break it down with a simple yet effective example: the expression 3(x + 2) - 2x.

What Does it Mean to Evaluate an Expression?

You might be wondering, what does it even mean to evaluate an expression? Well, evaluating means plugging in the values for the variables in the expression and simplifying it to get your answer. In our case, we're evaluating this expression when x = 4.

Substituting the Value

First things first! We substitute 4 for x in the expression 3(x + 2) - 2x. Here’s how:

3(4 + 2) - 2(4)

You see that? Super straightforward, right? You replace x with 4, and it opens the door to the next steps.

Simplifying Step-by-Step

Now, it’s time to simplify what we’ve got!

1. Calculate the value inside the parentheses:

   4 + 2 = 6
   

   So, now our expression looks like this:

   3(6) - 2(4)
   

2. Multiply out the terms:

   • For the first part:

   3 	imes 6 = 18
   

   • And the second part:

   2 	imes 4 = 8
   

   Pretty painless, don’t you think? All that math practice is paying off!

3. Combine your results:
   Let’s put that together:

   18 - 8
   

   And when we subtract—

   18 - 8 = 10
   

And There You Have It!

So, the result of evaluating 3(x + 2) - 2x when x = 4 is a neat 10. Easy peasy!

A Quick Recap

You followed through the steps from substituting the value to simplifying and finally arriving at the answer. This is a great example of how evaluating expressions can be done smoothly with practice. Understanding processes like this sharpens your math skills, setting you up solidly for that upcoming proficiency test.

Tips for Success

As you get ready for your exam, keep practicing with different expressions! Try varying the numbers or even the expression itself; you’ll find that the more comfortable you are with these calculations, the more confident you’ll be on test day. And remember, math can be fun once you get the hang of it. You know what? Before you dive into studying, grab a snack, clear your head, and then approach those practice problems with a fresh mind.

Happy learning, and good luck with your Ontario Mathematics Proficiency Test!