EngageNY
Structure in Graphs of Polynomial Functions
Don't allow those polynomial functions to misbehave! Understand the end behavior of a polynomial function based on the degree and leading coefficient. Learners examine the patterns of even and odd degree polynomials and apply them to...
EngageNY
Mastering Factoring
Math class is full of drama—there are so many problems to work out! Pupils work out factoring problems. They use quadratic methods of factoring higher degree polynomials, in addition to factoring the sum and difference of two cubes.
EngageNY
Overcoming Obstacles in Factoring
What do you do when factoring doesn't work? Learners complete the square when faced with quadratic expression that don't factor traditionally. They then use factoring by grouping to solve polynomial equations.
EngageNY
The Power of Algebra—Finding Pythagorean Triples
The Pythagorean Theorem makes an appearance yet again in this lesson on polynomial identities. Learners prove a method for finding Pythagorean triples by applying the difference of squares identity.
EngageNY
The Power of Algebra—Finding Primes
Banks are responsible for keeping our financial information safe. Mathematics is what allows them to do just that! Pupils learn the math behind the cryptography that banks rely on. Using polynomial identities, learners reproduce the...
EngageNY
Dividing by (x – a) and (x + a)
Patterns in math emerge from seemingly random places. Learners explore the patterns for factoring the sum and differences of perfect roots. Analyzing these patterns helps young mathematicians develop the polynomial identities.
EngageNY
Putting It All Together
Shuffle 'em up and deal! Learners practice operations with polynomials using cards they pass around the room. The activity works with pairs or individuals, so it offers great flexibility. This is the fifth installment in a series of 42...
EngageNY
The Division of Polynomials
Build a true understanding of division of polynomials. Learners use their knowledge of multiplying polynomials to create an algorithm to divide polynomials. The area model of multiplication becomes the reverse tabular method of division.
EngageNY
The Multiplication of Polynomials
If you can multiply multi-digit integers, you can multiply polynomials. Learners use an area model to compare multiplying numbers to multiplying polynomials. They progress to using the distributive property.
EngageNY
Mid-Module Assessment Task - Algebra 2 (Module 1)
Challenge classes to think deeply and apply their understanding of polynomials. The assessment prompts learners to use polynomial functions to model different situations and use them to make predictions and conclusions.
EngageNY
Modeling Riverbeds with Polynomials (part 1)
Many things in life take the shape of a polynomial curve. Learners design a polynomial function to model a riverbed. Using different strategies, they find the flow rate through the river.
EngageNY
Modeling with Polynomials—An Introduction (part 1)
Maximizing resources is essential to productivity. Class members complete an activity to show how math can help in the process. Using a piece of construction paper, learners construct a box with the maximum volume. Ultimately, they...
EngageNY
Modeling with Polynomials—An Introduction (part 2)
Linear, quadratic, and now cubic functions can model real-life patterns. High schoolers create cubic regression equations to model different scenarios. They then use the regression equations to make predictions.
EngageNY
Graphing Factored Polynomials
Young mathematicians graph polynomials using the factored form. As they apply all positive leading coefficients, pupils demonstrate the relationship between the factors and the zeros of the graph.
EngageNY
The Special Role of Zero in Factoring
Use everything you know about quadratic equations to solve polynomial equations! Learners apply the Zero Product Property to factor and solve polynomial equations. They make a direct connection to methods they have used with quadratic...
EngageNY
Radicals and Conjugates
Make the irrational rational again! Continuing the theme from previous lessons in the series, the lesson relates the polynomial identity difference of squares to conjugates. Learners develop the idea of a conjugate through analysis and...
EngageNY
Mental Math
Faster than a speedy calculator! Show your classes how to use polynomial identities to multiply numbers quickly using mental math.
EngageNY
Comparing Methods—Long Division, Again?
Remember long division from fifth grade? Use the same algorithm to divide polynomials. Learners develop a strategy for dividing polynomials using what they remember from dividing whole numbers.
EngageNY
Successive Differences in Polynomials
Don't give your classes the third degree when working with polynomials! Teach them to recognize the successive differences and identify the degree of the polynomial. The lesson leads learners through a process to develop an understanding...
West Contra Costa Unified School District
Particle Motion
Derivatives are useful for many things — they can even keep track of particle motion. An informative lesson plan provides an introduction to the idea of the second derivative in particle motion. Class members determine the velocity...
Mathematics Assessment Project
Circle Pattern
Cool circle patterns! To investigate patterns of shading in circles, learners use the values for specific examples of the pattern to generate a verbal rule for the arrangement.
Willow Tree
Factoring Polynomials
Young mathematicians discover trees organize more than just families — they help factor, too. The lesson begins with factor trees and develops slowly to factoring by grouping and special patterns.
Mathematics Assessment Project
Seeing Structure in Expressions
Structure makes everything easier — even math. A helpful resource contains five short problems that require pupils to use the structure of the expressions in order to answer the questions.
EngageNY
Graphing Quadratic Functions from Factored Form
How do you graph a quadratic function efficiently? Explore graphing quadratic functions by writing in intercept form with a lesson that makes a strong connection to the symmetry of the graph and its key features before individuals write...