Mathematics Grade 8 15 min

Model polynomials with algebra tiles

Model polynomials with algebra tiles

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1

Introduction & Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives Identify and differentiate between various types of algebra tiles (unit, x, x²). Represent positive and negative integers using algebra tiles. Represent variable terms (x and x²) and their negatives using algebra tiles. Construct visual models of monomials, binomials, and trinomials using algebra tiles. Explain the concept of a 'zero pair' and demonstrate its use in modeling. Translate a given algebra tile model back into its corresponding algebraic expression. Ever wished you could 'see' math? 🤔 Algebra tiles let you turn abstract expressions into hands-on models! In this lesson, you'll learn how to use special manipulatives called algebra tiles to visually represent polynomials. This skill is crucial for understanding algebrai...
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary

TermDefinitionExample Algebra TilesPhysical or virtual manipulatives used to represent numbers, variables, and their squares, helping to visualize algebraic expressions.A small square tile represents '1', a long rectangular tile represents 'x', and a large square tile represents 'x²'. PolynomialAn algebraic expression consisting of one or more terms, where each term is a product of a number and one or more variables raised to non-negative integer powers.$$3x^2 - 2x + 5$$ is a polynomial. MonomialA polynomial with only one term.$$5x$$ or $$-7$$ or $$2x^2$$ are monomials. BinomialA polynomial with exactly two terms.$$x + 3$$ or $$2x^2 - 4x$$ are binomials. TrinomialA polynomial with exactly three terms.$$x^2 - 5x + 6$$ is a trinomial. Variable TileAn algebra ti...
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Core Formulas

Unit Tile Representation A small square tile represents the constant '1'. A shaded or colored small square represents $$+1$$, and an unshaded or different colored small square represents $$-1$$. Use these tiles to model the constant terms in a polynomial. Remember that positive and negative tiles cancel each other out. Variable Tile Representation A rectangular tile represents the variable 'x'. A shaded or colored rectangle represents $$+x$$, and an unshaded or different colored rectangle represents $$-x$$. A large square tile represents $$x^2$$. A shaded or colored large square represents $$+x^2$$, and an unshaded or different colored large square represents $$-x^2$$. Use these tiles to model the variable terms in a polynomial. The dimensions of the tile...

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Sample Practice Questions

Challenging
A model is shown with 4 large shaded squares, 2 large unshaded squares, 3 shaded rectangles, 6 unshaded rectangles, 5 shaded small squares, and 1 unshaded small square. To represent the same polynomial with the minimum number of tiles, how many tiles are needed?
A.21
B.9
C.10
D.8
Challenging
The expression 4x is modeled using 8 tiles. Which of the following must be true about the model?
A.The model contains exactly 4 shaded rectangles.
B.The model contains only rectangle tiles.
C.The model contains at least two zero pairs of rectangle tiles.
D.The model contains large square tiles.
Challenging
You have a bag containing two large square tiles, three rectangle tiles, and one small square tile. You must use all six tiles to build a model. Which of the following expressions is IMPOSSIBLE to model?
A.2x² + 3x + 1
B.-2x² + 3x - 1
C.x² + 2x + 3
D.2x² - 3x + 1

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