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Term Tiles are great for algebraic computation with quadratics, but, Graphing
with Manipulatives and graphing calculators are extremely valuable tools for quadratics of all kinds. For
more on the best format or tool for the task at hand see
"Options".
Term Tiles may NOT be used to solve all quadratics. They are suitable for those
solved by factoring. They are not suitable for quadratics with irrational or complex roots. A graphing
calculator or pencil and paper is a much better tool for quadratics which can not be solved by factoring.
In algebra I, the quadratics solved are those solved only by factoring, so, for
algebra I, Term Tiles are appropriate solving tools.
Solve a Quadratic Equation by Factoring
| with Paper and Pencil |
| with Term Tiles |
| |
| 1st: |
Represent the equation. |
| 1st: |
Put everything on one side and 0 on the other side of the equation. |
is | 2nd: |
Move all tiles (terms) to one side of the equation leaving 0 on
the other side of the equation. |
| 2nd: |
FACTOR THE ENTIRE SIDE. | is |
3rd: |
FACTOR placing factors in the storage areas above and to the side of the display area. |
| |
| 4th: |
Remove the tiles in the display area. |
| 3rd: |
Set each factor equal to zero. | is |
5th: |
Set each factor equal to zero. Each factor requires an
equation. Use as many new display areas as needed to set each factor equal to zero. |
| 4th: |
Solve each new equation. | is |
6th: |
Solve each new equation. |
Before solving an equation, do so warmup work.
|
Solve a quadratic by factoring. |
|
| Solve a Quadratic Equation by Factoring with Term Tiles |
| 1st: | Represent the equation. |
| 2nd: | Move all tiles (terms) to one side of the
equation leaving 0 on the other side of the equation. |
| 3rd: | FACTOR placing factors in the storage areas
above and to the side of the display area. |
| 4th: | Remove the tiles in the display area. |
| 5th: | Set each factor equal to zero. Each factor
requires an equation. Use as many new display areas as needed to set each factor equal
to zero. |
| 6th: | Solve each new equation. |
Though this problem looks easier than the last one, for many students it is more
difficult. If the teacher wishes, require only the answer. If the teacher wishes, require the written work as well
as the answer. If the teacher wishes, require manipulative work.
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