Factoring

This activity is on factoring, and its use in solving polynomial equations has two main parts. In the first one, you will solve a randomly generated polynomial equation and share your solution process with your classmates.

In the second part, you will do some research and report on an application of polynomials used in science, engineering, business or any field. Polynomials are very important in modeling real-world applications. Your initial post will have your reply to both parts A and B, together.

Let’s get started

Part A

Go to and you will be directed to a randomly generated polynomial equation to solve.

Everyone will automatically get a different equation to solve. For this part of the activity complete the following:

• Take a screenshot of your polynomials. Ideally, you would crop the image like the one above. Here is how you crop an image in
• and here is how you crop an image on a
• Solve your equation with pen and paper. Use correct notation and syntax, as you see it in your textbook. Include a brief commentary on each line of your work explaining what you did. For example, On this step, I added 7 to both sides of the equation. You will not receive any credit if you only give the solution; you must explain each step in your own words.
• Take a picture of your work.
• Post both your screenshot and picture into your first, initial post by embedding (not attaching) the images.

Part B

In this part of the activity, you will find an example of an application of a polynomial function. It can be any application. In your post for this part of the activity (remember, include your responses to both parts A and B together in your first, initial post for the week), you will complete the followng:

• Give the polynomial function you found. Use proper notation and syntax by using the equation editor here in Canvas. It is in the Insert menu (see the image above on embedding an image).
• Briefly explain what the application is. What is being calculated or modeled?
• Do you know what the constants/coefficients in the function mean?
• Cite the source where you found the polynomial function.

Note: This activity is setup up so that you must submit your main, initial post before you can see the posts of your classmates.

For your main, initial post, thoroughly follow the directions given above.