Algebraic Reasoning: Simplifying Expressions [TEKS Tools Grade 6]
- Aaron Daffern
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
This post specifically looks at how algebraic reasoning can be used to solve one-step equations and inequalities. Read more about TEKS Tools and their rationale here.
Algebraic Reasoning
Algebraic reasoning accounts for around 27% of each 6th grade STAAR test. This thinking does not use a visible tool but instead relies on applying algebraic concepts to expressions, equations, and inequalities.
The main function of algebraic reasoning is to identify relationships in problem situations, apply the properties of operations and equality, and solve equations and inequalities.
Properties of Operations
Applying the properties of operations allows for equivalent expressions to be generated.
6.7D - generate equivalent expressions using the properties of operations: inverse, identity, commutative, associative, and distributive properties.
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2023-31: an expression was given, students had to apply a property of operation to generate an equivalent expression
2024-6: an expression was given, students had to apply a property of operation to determine an expression that was not equivalent
2024-15: five expressions were given, students had to apply properties of operation to identify equivalent expressions
2024-31: multiple pairs of expressions were given, students had to apply properties of operation to identity equivalent expressions
Order of Operations
The order of operations, first introduced in fifth grade, are expanded to include exponents in sixth grade to solve problems and simplify expressions.
6.3D - add, subtract, multiply, and divide integers fluently
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2023-11: an expression was given, students had to apply the order of operations to simplify
2024-22: an expression was given, students had to apply the order of operations to simplify
2025-24: an expression was given, students had to apply the order of operations to simplify
6.7A - generate equivalent numerical expressions using order of operations, including whole number exponents and prime factorization
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2023-16: an expression was given, students had to apply the order of operations to simplify
2025-28: an expression was given, students had to apply the order of operations to simplify
Notational fluency
Operations, such as division, can be noted in a variety of ways.
6.2E - extend representations for division to include fraction notation such as a/b represents the same number as a ÷ b where b ≠ 0
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2025-16: a problem situation was given, students had to interpret the implied operation and find the representation that did not match
6.7D - generate equivalent expressions using the properties of operations: inverse, identity, commutative, associative, and distributive properties
Click on each > to expand
2025-30: five expressions were given, students had to find the two that were equivalent
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