How to Use Algebra Tiles to Identify Equivalent Expressions?

A step-by-step guide to using algebra tiles to identify equivalent expressions

Algebra tiles are rectangular or square-shaped tiles that show numbers and variables. Each of the square tiles represents one. If you want to represent \(5\), you have to use \(5\) square tiles.
The expressions are equivalent if both of them have the same number of positive or negative tiles and contain the same number of rectangular variable tiles.
The expressions are not equivalent if there is any difference between the number of variable tiles.

Using Algebra Tiles to Identify Equivalent Expressions – Example 1

Write the expression these tiles represent.
Solution:
Count each set of tiles: \(4x+8+5x\)
Combine like terms: \(4x+5x\)
Thus, \(9x+8\) is equivalent to algebra tiles.

Using Algebra Tiles to Identify Equivalent Expressions – Example 2

Write the expression these tiles represent.
Solution:
Count each set of tiles: \(3+2x+2-3x\)
Combine like terms: \(3+2+2x-3x\)
Thus, \(5-x\) is equivalent to algebra tiles.