Pre-algebra is a primary branch of algebra designed to prepare students for a standard high school algebraic course. Students are introduced to integers, fractions, square roots, step equations, linear equations, and decimals and are taught how to solve basic equations using variables. Taking a pre-algebra course can give students initial exposure to the fundamentals of algebra and help them perform better in future courses.
1. | What is Pre-Algebra? |
2. | Pre-Algebra Topics |
3. | Pre Algebra Formulas |
4. | Difference Between Algebra and Pre Algebra |
5. | Pre Algebra Worksheets |
6. | FAQs on Pre-Algebra |
Pre-algebra is a branch of mathematics that deals with the topics to be covered before algebra 1, and algebra 2 to develop the basic understanding in students. The topics in pre-algebra consist of factors and multiples, patterns, ratios, percentages, exponents intro, order of operations, variables & expressions, linear equations. Let us discuss these listed topics in detail in our next section
Pre-algebra is divided into multiple sub-topics. There are seven-plus chapters in this branch and each chapter is divided into several sub-topics.
Number Theory
Factors and Multiples
Linear Equations
Ratio and Proportion
Exponents and Square Root
Statistics
Here are a few formulas related to pre-algebra which you may feel are handy to have.
Pre-algebra and algebra can be distinguished based on the complexity of the topics covered under both branches separately. The following table explains the important differences between pre-algebra and algebra.
Pre-algebra | Algebra |
---|---|
Pre-algebra introduces you to the primary (grassroots level) concepts of algebra. You learn about variables, functions, and how to use order of operation with an algebraic expression. | Algebra has much more advanced concepts than pre-algebra. You learn about laws of exponents, logarithms, fundamental theorems, and complex numbers, conic sections, etc. |
Pre-algebra helps students to have the basic command of algebra topics. | Algebra increases the complexity and understanding of the topics learned in pre-algebra. |
Pre-algebra is essential to understand algebra 1 and algebra 2. | Algebra is a major branch that includes topics of pre-algebra, algebra 1, and algebra 2. |
Pre-Algebra worksheets are extremely helpful for students to prepare for higher grade algebra. Below mentioned are few readily downloadable resources for your practice.
Pre Algebra Worksheet - 1
Pre Algebra Worksheet - 2
Pre Algebra Worksheet - 3
Pre Algebra Worksheet - 4
Example 1: Using pre-algebra basic rules evaluate the expression (7 × (y + 2)), where y = 3. Solution: Given, y = 3. Putting the value of y (by substitution property) in (7 × (y + 2)), we get, 7 × (3 + 2) = 7 × 5 = 35. Answer: 35
Example 2: Solve the given pre-algebraic expression for the value of x, 10 - (- 2) = x. Solution: Given, 10 - (- 2) = x. We will simply do the subtraction of the given expression and get the value of x. 10 + 2 is equal to 12, or x = 12. Therefore, the value of x is 12. Answer: x = 12
Example 3: Using pre-algebra rule solve the equation for the value of y. 10y + 2 = 3. Solution: Given, 10y + 2 = 3. We will simplify the given expression and get the value of y. 10y = 1
y = 1/10 Therefore, the value of y is 1/10. Answer: y = 1/10
Math will no longer be a tough subject, especially when you understand the concepts through visualizations.