Thomas' strategy is to write the given expression in a different form, also known as the equivalent form.
The expression is given as:
[tex]\mathbf{9 \times 7}[/tex]
Express 9 as 10 - 1
[tex]\mathbf{9 \times 7 = (10 - 1) \times 7}[/tex]
Distribute the expression. i.e. open the bracket
[tex]\mathbf{9 \times 7 = 70 - 7}[/tex]
Solve the expression on the right-hand side of the equation
[tex]\mathbf{9 \times 7 = 63}[/tex]
Recall that [tex]\mathbf{9 \times 7 = 70 - 7}[/tex].
So, we have:
[tex]\mathbf{70 - 7 = 63}[/tex]
Hence, both expressions are equivalent expressions
Read more about equivalent expressions at:
https://brainly.com/question/4348710
