Factor in different strategies in a instructional activity for factoring quadratics. Young mathematicians first create tables and area models to factor quadratic trinomials into two binomials by guess and check. Learners then investigate how they can use the middle term of the trinomial to guess and check efficiently.

Concepts

factoring quadratics, distributive property, foil method, area model

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Additional Tags

math

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Instructional Ideas

• Use the resource to introduce factoring quadratics
• Utilize algebra tiles in place of area models for struggling learners

Classroom Considerations

• Learners should have previous experience with area models for multiplication

Pros

• Includes printable worksheet to use either as classwork or homework
• Reviews terms such as expressions, equations, and polynomials before main lesson

Cons

• References a math department website, but it does not provide the link

Common Core

HSA-SSE.B.3.a