Carissa Erdman

#3 Solving Quadratic Equations by Factoring

Grade Level: 9-10
Aim: Students will use prior knowledge of solving quadratic equations algebraically, graphically, and
using tables, as well as prior knowledge of how to FOIL, to discover how to solve quadratic equations by
factoring.
PDE Curriculum Standards:

2.8.8.B Discover, describe, and generalize patterns, including linear, exponential and simple
quadratic relationships
2.8.11.N Solve linear, quadratic, and exponential equations both symbolically and graphically

Materials: small group discovery packet (one for each student)

Background knowledge:

Students will have learned how to solve and graph linear equations.
Students will have learned terminology, such as intercepts, roots, zeros.
Students will have learned how to graph an equation on a graphing calculator.
Students should be familiar with standard form of quadratic equations.

In-Class:
1) Play Guess the Number while taking attendance. Have the table already written on the board
& have students write the correct answers in notebooks. 5 minutes or less.
Sum
4
9
20
-5
-2
0
16
1
-2/3

Product
4
18
100
4
-15
-9
48

-7/9

Pair
(2,2)
(3,6) or (6,3)
(10,10)
(-4,-1) or (-1,-4)
(-5,3) or (3,-5)
(-3,3) or (3,-3)
(12,4) or (4,12)
(1/2,1/2)
(-7/9,1/9) or (1/9,-7/9)

2) Break into groups and distribute discovery packets.

3) Explain that the packet will guide students to form conclusions about how to solve quadratic
equations by factoring.
4) Distribute graphing calculators if needed.
5) Walk around the room to monitor student progress and assist if needed.
6) When every group has completed the packet, go over the answers and address any questions.