Read the assigned chapter section from the following textbook:

Blitzer, R. (2014)College algebra essentials(4th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.

Chapter P:"Prerequisites: Fundamental Concepts of Algebra"

• Section P.4:"Polynomials"
• Section P.5:"Factoring Polynomials"

Unit 2 Reading Overview

Unit 2 Reading you will help you learn about multiplying and factoring polynomials. Here are some topics you will become familiar with in this unit:

• Distributive Property: You use this property when multiplying a single term by a polynomial
• FOIL: This is an acronym for a method of multiplying two binomials. It helps keep track of all the terms.
• GCF: When factoring a monomial out of polynomials, you will always want to factor out the greatest common factor (GCF). Becoming proficient at factoring out the GCF will make your work in the rest of this chapter much easier. Finding the GCF, if it exists, will always be the first step in factoring.
• Grouping: Factoring by grouping is a two-step process used on polynomials with four terms. It is an excellent skill to have and it sets you up for success in solving trinomials. Factoring by grouping can be used to factor trinomials instead of trial and error. That is a very good thing for many students who do not do well with trial and error.
• Trinomials: There are several methods for factoring trinomials. Choose the one that works best for you. If you do not like solving with trial and error, please attend the Seminar to see the AC Method.
• Special Cases: There are some special cases for factoring including the difference of two squares and perfect square trinomials. Basically, you will learn short cuts for factoring these two cases.

Tips:

Keep the following guidelines in mind as you read through the material:

• Click on Chapter P under Unit 2 on the left hand navigation to access videos and animations of the concepts that will enhance your learning.
• Keep a notebook handy or document open as you work so that you can record any new definitions and notations you encounter. Mastering the mathematical vocabulary and notations will help you succeed in this course.
• Work through examples as you encounter them in the Reading. Each example is followed by a Check Point problem you can use to test your understanding. Try the Check Point problems to gauge your understanding of the concepts covered in each example. You can check your answers as you work through these problems with the worked-out solutions in the digital book. Solutions are also available in the Student Solutions Manual under the MML Resources tab.
• Use the Chapter Summary to study and check for understanding of important chapter content. Chapter Summaries are organized by section and highlight important concepts and topics with side-by-side examples.