\begin{tabular}{l}1 CAN EVALUATE EXDRESSIONS IF \( J=3, k=6 \), AND \( M=12 \). \\ \hline 15. \\ \hline\( j^{2}-9 \)\end{tabular}

To evaluate the expression \( j^{2} - 9 \) using the value \( J = 3 \), we first substitute \( J \) into the expression: 1. Calculate \( j^{2} \): \( 3^{2} = 9 \). 2. Now substitute this value back into the expression: \( 9 - 9 = 0 \). So, the evaluated expression results in \( 0 \). For a real-world application, think of this scenario as evaluating a budget. If you have a budget of $3 (like \( J \)) and you need to spend $9, you’ll have a deficit of $6. Evaluating equations can give you insights into whether you have surplus or deficit, just like in budgeting! Common mistakes people make while evaluating expressions include forgetting to square a number or mixing up negative signs. For our case, double-checking that \( j^{2} \) is calculated before subtracting can save you from making a blunder and ending up with the wrong answer.