Combining Like Terms Tarsia Puzzle

With this activity, students will simplify expressions by combining like terms to complete a puzzle! The expressions consist of varying levels of difficulty, ranging from simple expressions with only 1 variable to expressions that must be simplified by using the distributive property. The students match edges of expressions and their simplified counterpart in order to complete the puzzle.

Tips for use:

• Laminate and cut out the puzzle pieces for repeated use. Store them in individual baggies and all baggies in one large manila envelope for easy use in the future.
• Allow students to work in groups of 2 – 3 for a fun group activity.
• Best used for skills reinforcement, not introduction of the concept.