Math Units Page

Lesson Purpose

The purpose of this lesson is for students to understand that the rules for subtracting polynomials are analogous to the rules for subtracting integers. Students apply the rules of subtraction by building upon previous knowledge and understanding of polynomial terms.

Understanding polynomial operations is siginificant because it is the first major area outside of the basic two-step, one-variable algebra problems that are traditionally taught to students at the beginning levels in algebra.

The real world often requires that people be able to make sense of multiple variables that are numerous yet related. Understanding the rules of polynomial operations is one way to abstractly model many of those kinds of situations.

Related Documents

Lesson Objectives

At the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

• Subtract two or more polynomial quantities.
• Apply polynomial subtraction to algebraic geometry.

Student Target

“I can subtract two polynomial quantities and apply this skill, such as in algebraic geometry.”

CCR Focus Standards

Algebra and Functions - Level E

• A.APR.1

  Understand that polynomials form a system analogous to the integers, namely, they are closed under the operations of addition, subtraction, and multiplication; add, subtract, and multiply polynomials. [NOTE: Emphasis should be on operations with polynomials.]

Supporting Standards

• A.CED.1

  Create equations and inequalities in one variable and use them to solve problems. Include equations arising from linear and quadratic functions, and simple rational and exponential functions.*
  

• A.CED.4

  Rearrange formulas to highlight a quantity of interest, using the same reasoning as in solving equations. For example, rearrange Ohm’s law V = IR to highlight resistance R. )* [Also see 7.EE.2 and F.IF.8]
  

Standards for Mathematical Practice

• MP.2

  Reason abstractly and quantitatively. (MP.2)

• MP.7

  Look for and make use of structure. (MP.7)

KYAE Employability Standards

• E.1

  E.1 Effectively contribute to a team through cooperation, leadership, and giving and accepting critical feedback to work toward a common goal.

• E.6

  E.6 Identify and effectively use skills and materials needed for a particular task.