This study notes covers Worked Example 5: With Powers within Simplifying Expressions for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Simplifying Expressions in Algebra for GCSE Mathematics with 11 exam-style questions and 5 flashcards. Use this page as part of a wider topic revision path rather than treating it as an isolated fact. It is section 12 of 19 in this topic. Use this study notes to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Worked Example 5: With Powers
Find the value of x² + 2x − 5 when x = 3
Step 1 Substitute x = 3
= (3)² + 2(3) − 5
Step 2 Work out powers first (BIDMAS)
= 9 + 2(3) − 5
3² = 9
Step 3 Then multiplication
= 9 + 6 − 5
= 10
Practice questions for Simplifying Expressions
Which two terms are like terms?
Explain why 3x + 2x² cannot be simplified to 5x³.
Quick recall flashcards
Substitution
Replace each letter with its given value, then calculate
Like Terms
Terms with same letter and power: 2x and 5x are like terms