SECOND TERM I. Algebraic Expressions 1. Basic Concepts (Constant, Variables, Algebraic Expressions) 2. Definition of Integral Exponents 3.

Properties/Rules of Integral Exponents 4. Translation of Verbal Phrases to Mathematical Expressions and vice versa 5. Evaluating Algebraic Expressions 6. Classifying Polynomials 7. Operations on Algebraic Expressions (Polynomials and 1st Degree Equation) 8. Special Products a. Types b. Rules c. Relationship of Special Products and Factors 9. Factoring
1. Go through all the usual steps for factoring. First check for common monomial factors. 2. Try the special formulas for factoring perfect squares, and then use the first formula for factoring a second-degree polynomial, x^2 + Bx + C, and see if it works. 3. Apply the other special formula for factoring a second-degree polynomial of the form: Ax^2 + Bx + C. 4. Exhaust all normal steps of factoring before deciding that you have a prime polynomial on your hands. 5. Use the following as an example to help you learn to identify any prime polynomials you may come across: x^2 + 2x + 8. Set up a pair of two parentheses with the x's in place: (x + )(x + ) 6. Look for two numbers whose product is 8 and sum is 2. Check for the 2 and 4 when both are either plus or both are minus, for 8. Try 1 and 8 with both plus or minus for the positive 8. None of these four sets of numbers equal 2. 7. Declare the polynomial equation prime. You have looked at every possible way to factor the equation. It does not factor by a Greatest Common Factor or by special formulas. You have a prime polynomial on your hands.