Task 1: Introduction to Algebra Terminology
 A term is an expression formed by the product of numbers and
variables (letters) or just numbers and variables by themselves.
EXAMPLES:
3x2
2
x3
m
8
4n8
3y4
-7
b6
-7ab
 A non-numeric (letter) factor (or factors) of an algebraic term is
called the literal coefficient.
 A numeric (number) factor in an algebraic term is called a
numerical coefficient.
Below, the literal coefficient and numerical coefficient are labeled:
5x2
Numerical Coefficient
Literal Coefficient
 Terms can be put together to form algebraic expressions.
(Notice that the terms are separated by “plus” or “minus” signs.)
EXAMPLES:
3x + 2
-6y2 + 7
-2y – 7
4a – 8
-2m2 – 8y + 10
2a2 + 4a – 7
8c6 + 12
 A polynomial is an algebraic expression consisting of one or more
terms separated by addition (+) or subtraction (-) symbols.
 There are classifications of polynomials:
 One term =
monomial
EXAMPLE:
-4a
 Two terms =
binomial
EXAMPLE:
2x + 3
 Three terms =
trinomial
EXAMPLE:
2y2 – 5y + 3
 Polynomials can also mean expressions made up of 4 or more
terms.