Week of March 13

Algebra 1

Formula For Factoring Trinomials(when a =1)

It's always easier to understand a new concept by looking at a specific example so you might want to do that first. This formula works when 'a' is 1. In other words, we will use this approach whenever the coefficient in from of x2 is 1. (If you need help factoring trinomials when a≠1$a\ne 1$, then go here.

1. identify a,b, and c in the trinomial ax2 + bx+c
2. write down all factor pairs of c
3. identify which factor pair from the previous step sums up to b
4. Substitute factor pairs into two binomials

Example of Factoring a Trinomial

Example 1

Factor x2 + 5x + 4

Step 1

Identify a,b, and c in the trinomial 
ax2 + bx+c

a= 1
b= 5
c= 4

Step 2

Write down all factor pairs of 4 
(Note: since 5 is positive we only need to think about pairs that are either both positive or both negative. Remember a negative times a negative is a positive. As the chart on the right shows you -2*-2 is positive 4...so we do have to consider these two negative factors. This is probably easier to understand if you watch our video lesson factoring trinomials)

Step 3

identify which factor pair from the previous step sums up to c

Step 4

Substitute that factor pair into two binomials

(x +4)(x+1)

Step 5

If you'd like, you can check your work by multiplying the two binomials and verify that you get the original trinomial

Algebra 2

Assessments: Unit Project given later in the week

Monday
It is the day to write equation of the polynomial from the roots and to solve polynomials with imaginary roots and real roots combined.
Help:https://www.varsitytutors.com/hotmath/hotmath_help/topics/polynomials-with-complex-roots
HW: none

Tuesday
Happy Pi Day! We will solve circle problems all day today! The work will be polynomial roots and writing equations using the roots.
Help: http://www.piday.org/

HW; Prepare for a mini quiz, a circle problem!

Wednesday
We confirm circle problems are good and there will be a mini quiz today. You will do a great job!
Help:http://www.purplemath.com/modules/fromzero2.htm
HW; None

Thursday
It is the day to look at characteristics of polynomials
Help:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=epR8bf5PDmc
HW: None

Friday
Happy St. Patrick's Day! We continue with characteristics today
Help:http://www.sosmath.com/algebra/factor/fac03/fac03.html
HW: None

Have a great weekend! Two weeks to Spring Break!