Free printable worksheet
Evaluating Algebraic Expressions Worksheet
Twenty-four substitution problems with one or more variables, negative values, fractions, grouping, and exponents.
Middle School MathGrades 6-84 pagesAnswer key included
No email is required. Download the complete worksheet and answer key now.
Download the free PDF
What this worksheet includes
- Twenty-four substitution problems with one or more variables, negative values, fractions, grouping, and exponents.
- 4-page printable PDF with a complete answer key
- Designed for Grades 6-8 middle school math practice
- Available as an immediate free download with no email required
How to use it
Use this evaluating algebraic expressions worksheet for guided practice, independent review, homework, tutoring sessions, or a quick skills check. The spacious layout is designed to leave room for students to show their work rather than guess from crowded answer choices.
After students finish, compare their reasoning with the included answer key. When an answer is incorrect, have the student locate the first step where their work changed direction before trying the problem again.
Who this practice is for
This resource is designed for grades 6-8 students working on middle school math. Teachers, tutors, homeschool families, and parents can preview the first page before deciding whether the level and spacing fit the student.
Looking for a broader sequence? Browse all Middle School Math worksheets.
Topic guide
How to approach evaluating algebraic expressions
Evaluating an algebraic expression means replacing each variable with a given number and then calculating the result. The expression does not change its operation structure when a value is substituted.
Parentheses are especially important for negative values. For example, if a = −2, then a² becomes (−2)², which equals 4; it does not become −4.
Learning objectives
- Substitute given values into algebraic expressions
- Evaluate expressions containing negative values and powers
- Evaluate expressions with two or more variables
Skills to review first
- Integer operations
- Order of operations
- Exponent notation
Worked example
Follow the reasoning step by step
Evaluate 3a² − 1 when a = −2.
- Replace a with −2 and use parentheses: 3(−2)² − 1.
- Evaluate the power first: (−2)² = 4.
- Multiply: 3 × 4 = 12.
- Subtract 1.
Solution: 11.
Try before downloading
Three sample problems
Work each problem, then open the answer to check your result.
Show answer
Show answer
Error check
Common mistakes to watch for
- Dropping the negative sign when substituting
- Treating −2² and (−2)² as the same expression
- Substituting for only one occurrence or one variable