How to Use Strip Models to Identify Equivalent Expressions?

How to use strip models to identify equivalent expressions, step by step: the rule in plain language, solved examples worked one line at a time, and practice questions so you can try it yourself before moving on.

1. Draw a rectangle for each term in the expression.
2. Write the coefficient or the numerical value of each term in the corresponding rectangle.
3. Use arrows to show the distribution of the coefficient to the terms within the rectangle.
4. Identify common terms and combine the corresponding rectangles.
5. Compare the simplified expressions and check if they are equal.

Using Strip Models to Identify Equivalent Expressions, Example 1

There are (4) times (x) and (8) times (n) in this model.
So, it can be written as (4x+8n).

Using Strip Models to Identify Equivalent Expressions, Example 2

Write the expression that the model represents.

Solution:
This model represents (1+1+1+1+v+v+v+v+v)
There are (4) times (1) and (5) times (v).
So, it can be written as (4+5 v)

Exercises for Using Strip Models to Identify Equivalent Expressions

Write the expression that the model represents.

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