1. Algebraic Expressions
Honors Precalculus Adv.
January 10-11, 2017
Mrs. Agnew

2. Essential Question Essential Vocabulary
How do you factor algebraic expressions?
Essential Vocabulary
Factoring
GCF
Quadratic Trinomial
Difference of Squares
Sum and Difference of Cubes
Grouping

3. Multiplying Expressions
Terminology: polynomial, monomial, binomial, trinomial, degree
Multiplying polynomials
FOIL, or distribute terms
Look for conjugates when multiplying
Examples

4. Factoring: GCF
When factoring an algebraic expression, ALWAYS look for a GCF first.
GCF may be a term or a binomial.
Examples…

5. Factoring Trinomials
Recall a trinomial is a polynomial with three terms.
Factor into two binomials using trial and error (a, b, c).
Examples…

6. Difference of Squares Factoring difference of squares:
(factor into conjugates)
Examples…

7. Factoring by Grouping Use grouping when expression is four terms.
Group first two and last two. Look for GCF.
Examples…

8. Sum/Difference of Cubes
To factor the sum or difference of two perfect cubes…
Examples…

9. Special Forms of Factoring
When factoring, if the middle term’s exponent is half the first, factor as a trinomial…
Hints for factoring
ALWAYS look for a GCF
2 terms = perfect squares or perfect cubes
3 terms = trinomial
4 terms = grouping
Examples

10. Homework: Factoring
Homework
Factoring Worksheet