Combine like terms

Target: Add only terms with the same variable part.

Language target: Name which terms are like.

Likely miss: Students add the variable to the constant or multiply the variable terms.

Ask: Which terms have an x, and which do not?

If you see it: Sort the terms into two piles: with the variable, and without it.

Evidence to listen for: Only like terms are combined, and the variable remains.

Next: If x and a number are added into one term, return to the two piles.

Observable student moves: names both quantities, uses the represented relationship, and revises after feedback. This companion is not a score.