Algebra tiles can visually represent algebraic expressions and help in understanding how to calculate area. The area is determined by the tiles that make up the shape.
Based on the provided reference, calculating the area with algebra tiles involves identifying the tiles present and expressing their combined area as an algebraic expression. For example, if you have:
- Three 'y' tiles
- One 'x' tile
Then, the total area would be expressed as 3y + x (as stated in the reference: "Plus these y tiles looks like I have three of those y tiles. Plus one x tile... that right there is the area for our shape made up of these algebra tiles again.")
In summary, to determine the area using algebra tiles:
- Identify the tiles: Determine the quantity and type of each algebra tile that forms the shape.
- Write the expression: Combine the areas represented by each tile to create an algebraic expression representing the total area. For instance, a shape composed of 3 'y' tiles and 1 'x' tile has an area of 3y + x.
