Author note — to cover

Simplify by combining like terms in one or two letters plus constants, each term keeping the sign in front of it, e.g. 5a + 3b − 2a + b; treat 3ab and 2ba as like terms. Powers (x versus x²) are the sibling page; multiplying terms is a separate page. Both tiers. (A4)

• Fluency — direct questions on collecting like terms, limited to this lesson's stated scope (4 questions).
• Application — use the same skill in unfamiliar or contextual questions without introducing a later method (4 questions).
• Check — questions built around the exclusions and likely misconceptions named in the lesson brief (4 questions).