Chapter 21.4

Using algebra tiles to factor polynomials

What You'll Learn

Represent polynomials visually using algebra tiles with shaded and empty shapes
Model multiplication of binomials by arranging tiles in rectangular arrays
Identify x-squared, x, and constant terms through different tile shapes and sizes
Verify factored expressions by counting and combining positive and negative tiles
Apply the FOIL method and confirm results using visual tile representations

What You'll Practice

1

Drawing algebra tiles to represent products like 2x(x - 2)

2

Multiplying binomials such as (x - 3)(4x + 1) using tile arrays

3

Combining like terms by counting shaded and empty tiles

4

Verifying polynomial products by matching algebraic and visual solutions

Why This Matters

Using algebra tiles to factorise polynomials builds your visual understanding of how multiplication and factoring work. This concrete representation helps you see why FOIL works and strengthens your ability to manipulate algebraic expressions with confidence in higher-level math courses.

Before You Start — Make Sure You Can:

Model and solve one-step linear equations: ax = b, x/a = bSolving two-step linear equations using addition and subtraction: ax + b = cSolving two-step linear equations using multiplication and division: x/a + b = cSolving two-step linear equations using distributive property: a(x + b) = c

This Unit Includes

2 Video lessons

Skills

Algebra Tiles
Polynomials
Factoring
FOIL Method
Visual Modeling
Binomial Multiplication
Like Terms
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