Find the Error in Distributing Steps

Work through the sheets in order, since each adds one new step. Use Solve Multi-Step Equations and Check Each Answer to build the habit of checking, and give the checkpoint as a review.

Circle the wrong distributing step in 6 worked equations, like 3(x − 4) becoming 3x − 4, and fix it. The directions on the page read: Circle the wrong step, describe the mistake and solve correctly in the box. An answer key is included.

Yes, both. We made it for 8th grade algebra, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.

Distribute to clear parentheses, combine like terms on each side, then undo addition or subtraction and finally multiplication or division. Checking the answer in both sides catches mistakes. Solve Multi-Step Equations and Check Each Answer has a Left and Right line for this.

Every term inside the parentheses changes sign. So −2(3x − 4) becomes −6x + 8, and −(x − 16) becomes −x + 16. Distribute a Negative Factor, Then Solve practices this on 10 equations.

Multiply every term on both sides by 10 for tenths so the coefficients become whole numbers. Then 0.4x + 2.6 = 1.2x − 3.8 becomes 4x + 26 = 12x − 38. Solve the new equation the usual way.