This week we reviewed polynomials. We learned about binomials, how to find like terms and how resolve questions using different strategies such as the block method, the foil method, distributing, using models or area grids.

A simple question that I had over- complicated was ( 4a +4) (3a – 2)

To answer this question you needed to use the FOIL method. Find the products of the of the First, Outside, Inside, and Last terms, and then add them.

First we’ll multiply the first terms 4a and 3a, which gives us 12a2 ( 12 a squared) 

Then we multiply the outside terms 4a -2, which gives us -8a

Next the inside terms 4 and 3a, 12a

Multiply the last terms 4 and -2, -8

And then we’ll add the results and simplify

= 12a2 + 4a -8