Unit 2 Factoring
1. Let's start by stating the problem: You are preparing for a grade 11 math test on Unit 2, which is about factoring.
2. Factoring is the process of breaking down an expression into simpler expressions that multiply together to give the original expression.
3. Common types of factoring include:
- Factoring out the greatest common factor (GCF)
- Factoring trinomials (e.g., $ax^2+bx+c$)
- Factoring difference of squares (e.g., $a^2 - b^2$)
- Factoring perfect square trinomials
- Factoring by grouping
4. Example: Factor $x^2 + 5x + 6$.
Step 1: Find two numbers that multiply to $6$ (the constant term) and add to $5$ (the coefficient of $x$).
Step 2: Those numbers are $2$ and $3$ because $2\times 3 = 6$ and $2+3=5$.
Step 3: Write the factored form as $(x + 2)(x + 3)$.
5. Practice is key for factoring. Review each type above, practice problems, and check your answers.
Good luck on your test!