This week in math 11 we continued learning about polynomials. There were different strategies that we learned to simplify polynomials such as the claw, the area model, FOIL and algebra tiles.
The most difficult strategy for me was the FOIL method, I was never able to identify when or how to use it but eventually, I got the hang of it.
Foil stands for- First, Outer, Inner and Last.
Example: ( x+2) (3x-7)
In this equation we have two binomials, we’ll start by multiplying the first terms x and 3x.
- 3(x)^2
- Then we’ll multiply the outer terms: x and -7 = -7x
- Then we multiply the inner terms: 2 and 3x = 6x
- Lastly the last terms: +2 and -7= -14
Our equation is now: 3(x)^2-7x+6x-14
We will need to combine like terms to have this equation at its most simplified way.
Once combined, we are left with -x.
Our final product will be: 3(x)^2-14