Understanding the Simplification of Algebraic Expressions

When prepping for the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) Math Exam, having a solid grasp of simplifying expressions is crucial. It might seem daunting at first, but once you break it down, it’s a piece of cake! Let’s talk about one specific expression: 3(2x + 4) - 5.

You know what? When faced with an expression like this, the first step is often to distribute. That means you’re going to share that 3 with each term inside the parentheses. So, let’s break it down together. You've got

• 3 multiplied by 2x, which gives you 6x.
• Then, 3 times 4 gives you 12.

So at this stage, you can rewrite the expression as: 6x + 12. Pretty straightforward, right?

But, wait—there’s more! Now it’s time to deal with that pesky -5 hanging out at the end. So, you take your simplified expression and subtract 5.

So now you’re up to: 6x + 12 - 5. Here’s where it gets fun: you simply combine the numbers. 12 minus 5 is 7!

Boom! You’re left with the final simplified expression: 6x + 7. This is what I mean when I say you'll eventually recognize the patterns in algebra.

Now, if that didn't connect for you just yet, think of it this way: simplifying mathematical expressions is like cleaning out your closet. You start with a whole bunch of clothes (or terms), throw out any duplicates or ones that no longer fit (subtracting and combining like terms), and eventually, you're left with a tidy, manageable collection—just like how you end up with a neat mathematical expression!

So, to wrap this up nicely: when you're asked to simplify, remember to distribute what’s outside the parentheses, combine like terms, and always keep an eye out for that subtraction or addition at the end. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be breezing through similar problems on the CAASPP exams!

In fact, tackling problems like this can build foundations for more advanced topics you might encounter in higher math courses. So hang in there, and don’t hesitate to revisit these basics—they’ll come in handy down the road!