Factoring Polynomials Completely - An Essential Algebra 1 Skill

This class can be a great review for students who are familiar with the FOIL method or have recently completed Algebra 1 and would like reinforcement, or a great refresher for those about to enter Algebra 2. For younger students who love math and are familiar with integer operations and greatest common factor, this could be a fun challenge for them! For those students, it would also be helpful if they were familiar with the FOIL method (see my other class listing).
Students will learn how to factor quadratic equations (trinomials) and other polynomials in a two-step learning process: 1) by way of examples led by the teacher. The teacher will first give examples and then 2) lead the group to work through problems. Problem-solving will be a collaborative effort between students and the teacher, working as a team. The teacher will have plenty of problems to work, and students are also welcome to bring problems, if they wish, for the group to solve.
My teaching style is very interactive, engaging, encouraging, and fun. We will factor completely. Factoring will include the GCF (Greatest Common Factor) factoring technique as well as by grouping and continues with students and teacher working together to factor polynomials completely. Finally, the teacher will give students the opportunity to solve problems on their own, and then go over the problem as a group. Time permitting, students may submit problems of their own for the group to solve.