6th Grade · Expressions & Equations
Distributive Property
6.EE.A.3
Definition
A rule that multiplies a factor by each term inside parentheses, as in a(b + c) = ab + ac.
Teach it
Where it is taught, with guided notes, practice, homework, an exit ticket and an interactive Teacher Deck.
Examples
- 3(x + 2) = 3·x + 3·2 = 3x + 6.
- Multiply the outside number by each term inside.
Key rule
The distributive property hands the outside factor to every term inside.
Memory hook
One number, distributed to everyone inside the parentheses.