The Distributive Property
6-8
2
Factoring a Trinomial
Lesson Details
Grade Level
9-12
Duration (minutes)
1
Summary
A grade 9-12 math lesson teaching how to factor a trinomial into two binomials, using x² + 5x + 6 as a worked example, including how to check the answer by expanding it back out.
Student Worksheet: Factoring a Trinomial
Teacher Note: Students can watch the video lesson above and answer the questions. Click the “Teacher Answer Key” dropdown below when you are ready to review the solutions!
Key Concepts:
• Trinomial: An expression with three terms, like ax² + bx + c.
• Factoring: Writing a trinomial as two multiplied binomials.
• The Pair: Find two numbers that multiply to c and add to b.
• Check: Expand your factored answer to confirm it matches the original trinomial.
Instructions: Read each question carefully and write your answer in the space provided.
- Question 1: In x² + 5x + 6, what are the values of a, b, and c?
- Question 2: What two numbers multiply to 6 and add to 5?
- Question 3: Write x² + 5x + 6 in factored form.
- Question 4: How can you check that a factored answer is correct?
- Question 5: When you expand (x + 2)(x + 3), what do you get before combining like terms?
Click to reveal Teacher Answer Key
1. a = 1, b = 5, c = 6
2. 2 and 3
3. (x + 2)(x + 3)
4. Expand the factored form and confirm it matches the original trinomial
5. x² + 3x + 2x + 6
Disclaimer: This worksheet was generated with AI assistance based on original video content. It is intended for educational reference only. Teachers are encouraged to review and adjust questions to fit their curriculum standards before classroom use.
🎯 Extension Activity: Give students a new trinomial, like x² + 7x + 12, and have them factor it using the same four steps, then check their work by expanding the answer back out.