Combining Like Terms Worksheet | Grade 7 Math Printable

This combining like terms worksheet provides targeted practice for middle school students learning to simplify algebraic expressions. By working through these problems, students will develop the foundational algebra skills needed to evaluate and manipulate linear expressions efficiently, setting them up for success in solving complex equations.

At a Glance

• Grade: 7 · Subject: Math
• Standard: CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.7.EE.A.1 — Simplify linear expressions with rational coefficients.
• Skill Focus: Combining Like Terms
• Format: 2 pages · 15 problems · Answer key included · PDF
• Best For: Independent practice or homework
• Time: 15–20 minutes

Inside this resource, educators will find a straightforward, two-page printable activity featuring 15 carefully sequenced algebraic expressions. The problems begin with basic two-term combinations and progress to more complex expressions involving the distributive property and multiple variables. A complete answer key is included to ensure quick and accurate grading for teachers or self-checking for students.

• Guided practice: The first few problems offer simple, direct applications of combining coefficients with identical variables to build initial confidence.
• Supported practice: Mid-level tasks introduce multiple terms and constants, requiring students to carefully group like terms before performing addition or subtraction.
• Independent practice: The final questions challenge students to apply the distributive property first before combining the remaining terms.

This gradual-release approach ensures students master the core concept before tackling multi-step algebraic procedures.

This worksheet is directly aligned to CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.7.EE.A.1, which requires students to apply properties of operations as strategies to add, subtract, factor, and expand linear expressions with rational coefficients. It also supports foundational skills for 8th-grade equation solving. Both standard codes can be copied directly into lesson plans, IEP goals, or district curriculum mapping tools.

Deploy this worksheet during the independent practice phase of your lesson, immediately following direct instruction on the distributive property and combining terms. It also serves as an excellent homework assignment or review activity before a unit assessment. As students work, observe whether they are correctly applying negative signs when distributing or combining terms—a common stumbling block in early algebra. Most students will complete the 15 problems in 15 to 20 minutes.

This resource is designed primarily for 7th and 8th-grade general education math students, as well as 9th graders needing a quick algebra refresher. To support learners who struggle with integer operations, consider pairing this worksheet with a number line anchor chart or allowing the use of basic calculators. It pairs perfectly with introductory lessons on solving multi-step equations.

Mastering the ability to simplify linear expressions with rational coefficients is a critical stepping stone in early algebraic reasoning. According to EdReports 2024, instructional materials that provide focused, sequential practice on foundational algebra skills significantly improve students' transition to higher-level mathematics and advanced problem-solving. This worksheet directly addresses CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.7.EE.A.1 by giving students the exact repetition needed to internalize these operational rules and properties. When students confidently combine like terms and apply the distributive property, they effectively reduce their cognitive load during complex equation-solving tasks later in the curriculum. By isolating this specific mathematical skill, teachers can quickly identify and correct common student misconceptions regarding negative signs and variable grouping before moving on to multi-step equations. Consistent, structured practice with these targeted problem sets ensures long-term retention, builds procedural mathematical fluency, and fosters greater academic confidence.