Students begin their journey into algebraic expansion by understanding the distributive property, which forms the basis for expanding expressions. They start with simple scenarios like expanding expressions a(b+c), using concrete examples to visualize the distribution of multiplication over addition. This concept is incrementally developed as they move through the grades, from using numerical examples to incorporating variables. By 5th grade, students are familiar with the concept of expansion in various forms, including the ability to expand and simplify expressions involving multiple terms and variables.

Initially, students learn basic expansion techniques involving single-variable expressions and simple binomials, such as expanding (x+3)(x+4). They practice these skills using area models, algebra tiles, or simple multiplication, helping them visualize how each term interacts when multiplied. As they progress, they deal with more complex polynomials and learn to apply these techniques more broadly, including working with coefficients and combining like terms. By 5th grade, students confidently use expansion techniques to tackle higher-degree polynomials and apply these skills in solving algebraic equations and simplifying expressions.

After mastering basic expansion techniques, students start to apply these skills to algebraic terms, learning to recognize and utilise opportunities for expansion in solving algebraic equations and simplifying expressions. They explore how expansion can be used to transform algebraic expressions into equivalent forms that are easier to manipulate or solve. This includes expanding products of binomials and trinomials, as well as applying expansion to solve word problems that involve algebraic reasoning. By 5th grade, students can perform complex expansions and apply these skills in diverse algebraic contexts, preparing them for more advanced studies in algebra, including factoring and solving quadratic equations.