Learning about like and unlike terms can be really exciting for 7th graders! Here are some fun activities to try:

1. Term Scavenger Hunt

• Set up a scavenger hunt in the classroom. Have students look for items and sort them into like or unlike terms.
• For example, $3x$ is like $5x$, but $2y$ is unlike $3x$.

2. Sorting Game

• Get some cards with different algebraic terms on them.
• Students can team up and sort these cards into groups of like terms.
• For instance, the cards $4a$, $2a$, and $5a$ can be grouped together!

3. Creative Expressions

• Ask students to draw or act out examples of like and unlike terms.
• They can show two friends who share the same favorite color (like terms) versus friends who have different hobbies (unlike terms).

By using these activities, you’ll make learning about algebraic expressions relatable and a lot of fun!