Overview
On this page, we review some basic facts about polynomials.
Basic Learning Objectives
These are the tasks you should be able to perform with reasonable fluency when you arrive at your next class meeting. Important new vocabulary words are indicated in italics.
- Recognize a polynomial and its associated parts, like terms, degree, and coefficients.
- Evaluate a polynomial at a given value.
Advanced Learning Objectives
In addition to mastering the basic objectives, here are the tasks you should be able to perform after class, with practice:
- Add or subtract polynomials.
To prepare for class
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Watch the following video (by Mathispower4u) which gives an overview of the important vocabulary relating to polynomials, including terms, degree, coefficients, monomials, binomials, and trinomials:
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Watch the following video (by Khan Academy) which shows how to evaluate a polynomial at a given number for its variable:
After class
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Watch the following video (by Tyler Wallace) which explains how to add or subtract two polynomials in one variable:
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Watch the following video (by patrickJMT) which gives further examples of distinguishing polynomials from non-polynomial expressions:
