Factoring Quadratic Expressions with Algebra Tiles

Factoring Quadratic Expressions with Algebra Tiles

Explore how quadratic expressions are represented and factored using algebra tiles.


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Putting It All Together

Answer these open ended questions on your own or with others to form deeper math connections.

Open-ended question 1

What do each of the different types of algebra tiles represent in the quadratic expression?

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Open-ended question 2

Explain how the number of each type of algebra tile relates to the quadratic expression.

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Open-ended question 3

Explain how the dimensions of the rectangle formed by the algebra tiles relate to the binomial factors.

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Open-ended question 4

Is there more than one way to factor a quadratic trinomial? Why or why not?

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Open-ended question 5

Expressions like  and are called perfect square trinomials. Why do you think they are called that?

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Open-ended question 6

What do you notice about the factors of perfect square trinomials?

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Open-ended question 7

Can a constant of a perfect square trinomial ever be negative? Why or why not?

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