ALGEBRA: Multiplying Polynomials in Cerritos
ALGEBRA TUTOR TIPS:
At first glance in Algebra, multiplying polynomials may seem challenging. But once you understand some of the basic principles, like combining “like terms,” it’s really quite simple.
You can learn this strategy with the help of an A Plus In Home Tutor who is well qualified to teach Algebraic concepts. In no time, you’ll enhance your Algebra skills and improve those test scores!
What exactly is a polynomial? A polynomial is an expression consisting of more than two algebraic terms.
Tip from an A+ Algebra Tutor:
Let’s break down the format of a polynomial in Algebra to get a clear picture.
Multiplying a monomial by another monomial is the same as multiplying
(1 term x 1 term).
Here’s an example:
1 term x 1 term
(2xy) • (4y) = 8xy²
What did we do here?
2•4•xy•y = 8xy²
If one term is called a monomial, then what do you call an expression with two terms? That’s right—a binomial. To solve an Algebra problem with binomials, use the distributive property.
Here’s the method at work in this simple equation:
1 term x 2 terms
2x(x + 3xy) = 2x • x + 2x • 3xy (distribute and multiply)
Answer: = 2x² + 6x²y
How would we solve this binomial times monomial problem? Notice that we have just flipped the order. Don’t let this common structure confuse you. You can proceed to distribute each term using multiplication.
(x² – x)3y = 3x²y – 3xy (distribute)
What about multiplying a binomial by another binomial?
Each of the two terms in the first binomial is multiplied with each of the two terms in the second binomial.
Tip from an A+ Algebra Tutor:
The Algebra trick to solving polynomials is to use the “Foil” method. This means you multiply each term in a particular order. FOIL is an acronym that describes that order: firsts, outers inners and lasts.
Now let’s put this knowledge to the test.
Example:
(2x + 3)(x – 5) = 2x² – 10x + 3x – 15
Combine like terms = 2x² – 7x – 15
How did we use the FOIL method to get this answer?
Check it out:
Always remember to add like terms in Algebra:
Example: (x + 2y)(3x − 4y + 5)
(x + 2y)(3x − 4y + 5)
= 3×2 − 4xy + 5x + 6xy − 8y2 + 10y
= 3×2 + 2xy + 5x − 8y2 + 10y
Note: −4xy and 6xy are added because they are Like Terms.
Also note: 6yx means the same thing as 6xy
Our wonderful tutors at A Plus In Home Tutors know that your students have the potential to soar in their academic paths. Students in schools throughout Cerritos are learning how to effectively apply the knowledge acquired in their one-on-one sessions. As we approach the end of the school year, encourage your student to finish strong by allowing our tutors to help!