Distinguishing Algebraic Expressions from Non-Algebraic Expressions - JSS1 Mathematics Lesson Note

An algebraic expression is a mathematical phrase that can include numbers, variables (like 𝑥, 𝑦), and operation symbols (such as +, -, *, /). Algebraic expressions do not include equality or inequality signs (those are part of equations or inequalities).

A non-algebraic expression does not contain variables; it only includes numbers and operations.

Algebraic Expressions Examples:

3𝑥+4

2𝑎−5𝑏+7

12𝑥−3

𝑥+8

 −3𝑥+8

2+𝑏

2+𝑐

In each example, the expressions contain variables (like 

𝑥, 𝑎, 𝑏, and 𝑐) along with numbers and operation symbols.

Non-Algebraic Expressions Examples:

7+3

12−5

8×4

100/25

These expressions only contain numbers and operations, without any variables.

Mixed Example Analysis:

5𝑥+7=12

This is not just an algebraic expression; it is an equation because it includes an equality sign.

3𝑦−4≠10

This is not just an algebraic expression; it is an inequality because it includes an inequality sign.

(2+3)×5

This is a numerical expression because it does not contain variables, only numbers and operations.