1. Factoring Polynomials Section 2.4 Standards Addressed: A1.1.1.5, A1.1.1.5.3, CC.2.2.HS.D.1, CC.2.2.HS.D.2, CC.2.2.HS.D.5

2. Essential Questions  How does the FOIL method relate to factoring quadratic trinomials and a difference of two squares?  Why should we factor?

3. Factoring Checklist  Factor out the GCF.  If the polynomial has two or three terms, look for:  A quadratic trinomial (which can result in a pair of binomial factors)  A difference of two squares  Check that each factor is prime.  Check your answer by multiplying all of the factors.

4. A quadratic trinomial is a trinomial that is in the format ax 2 + bx + c, where a, b, and c are integers. We will only be working with quadratic trinomials where a = 1. Factoring a quadratic trinomial involves recognizing patterns, estimating, looking for clues, and multiplying to check.

5. ax 2 + bx + c Quadratic trinomials can often be factored as a product of two binomials. To do so, determine which two numbers have a product equal to c and a sum equal to b.

6. Example 1: Factor

8. Worksheet: Factoring Trinomials

9. Some binomials can be factored as a difference of two squares. a 2 – b 2 = ( a + b )( a – b )

10. Example 2: Factor

11. Always check to make sure all polynomials are factored completely.

12. Example 3: Factor