Distributive Property with Negatives - Math Practice Worksheet

Sep 23, 2026

Uploaded by Ophelia

This educational document provides a structured practice worksheet focused on applying the distributive property in algebraic expressions involving negative numbers. It includes sixteen specific practice problems and one challenge problem designed to test a student's understanding of sign rules when multiplying negative integers. Comprehensive instructions and an answer key are included to facilitate self-assessment and mastery of algebraic simplification. The material is intended for K-12 students seeking to improve their mathematical proficiency in basic algebra operations through targeted, repetitive practice and error analysis.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryExam

FormatPDF

Pages2

Reading Time5 min

AccessFree to download

Practice Problems

Challenge Problem

Answer Key

FAQs

What is the core rule for signs when using the distributive property with negatives?

A negative times a positive equals a negative, and a negative times a negative equals a positive.

How does the distributive property apply to the expression -3(x - 4)?

You multiply -3 by x to get -3x, and -3 by -4 to get +12, resulting in -3x + 12.

What common error does the challenge problem highlight?

The student failed to change the sign of the second term when multiplying by a negative number, incorrectly getting -15 instead of +15.

Sep 23, 2026

Uploaded by Ophelia