7th Grade · Expressions & Equations
Like Terms
7.EE.A.1
Definition
Terms with identical variable parts (same variables raised to the same powers). Only like terms can be combined by adding or subtracting their coefficients.
Teach it
Where it is taught, with guided notes, practice, homework, an exit ticket and an interactive Teacher Deck.
Examples
- 3x + 5x + 4x = 12x (all same variable, same exponent).
- 3x2 and 7x2 are like terms, but 3x and 3x2 are NOT (different exponents).
Key rule
You can only combine like terms — different variables or exponents cannot combine.
Memory hook
Same variable, same power, then combine.