It doesn't get simpler than this. Scholars first learn to simplify radicals by determining the prime factors of the radicand. The lesson progresses to simplifying radicals involving algebraic expressions in the radicand.

Concepts

radicals, simplify radicals, radical expressions

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Additional Tags

math

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Instructional Ideas

• Use the resource to help plan a lesson on simplifying radicals

Classroom Considerations

• Pupils need to be able to manipulate algebraic expressions using the properties of exponents (e.g., convert x^5 to (x)(x^4))
• The lesson does not assume any prior knowledge with simplifying radicals, but does assume that learners have worked with radicals before (such as identifying the value)

Pros

• Teacher guide includes suggestions for partner work
• Provided answer key shows multiple methods that could be could used to simplify radicals

Cons

• No printable materials; the resource expects indviduals to copy down examples and notes
• References to California standards and assessments (CST/CAHSEE) are outdated and have been replaced by the Common Core