Question

Evaluate the expression for the given value of the variable(s).

-x 2 - 4x; x = –3

A. 3
B. –17
C. –1
D. 11

Simple math, medals given.

Answer 1

Rewrite your expression.
Everywhere is says "x", substitute the value "-3".
Simplify.

Show your work.

Answer 2

-3^2 - 4(-3);-3 = -3?

Answer 3

-3^2 - 4(-3)

This is just fine, but one tiny point to discuss, It isn't always clear what to do with the minus sign out front when there is an exponent.

Does -3^2 mean -(3^2) or does it mean (-3)^2. Always good to be perfectly clear.

(-3)^2 - 4(-3) = 9 + 12

Ponder where those two values came from.

Answer 4

I see what you mean but I haven't thought about any of this in 8 years, I'm not even sure how to simplify correctly. Do I simplify 9 + 12?

Answer 5

I see how you came up with them, I remember most of the exponent rules but I'm helping my little sister in 6th grade.

Answer 6

No problem. Keep up the good work.

Just keep simplifying. 9 + 12 = 21

That's all.

Answer 7

So... 11...