Problems 1-6
There are many problems throughout the text labeled IN YOUR OWN WORDS. Just relax; do not be afraid to give your opinion. For the most part, these questions do not have “right” or “wrong” answers. You should spend about five minutes in answering each of these questions.
Problems 7-22
First see Example 2 for the simplification, and then classify as a monomial, binomial, or trinomial as shown in Example 1. Finally, remember that the degree is the number of variable factors in each term, and the degree of a polynomial is the same as the highest-degree term.
Problems 23-30
See Example 5. Note: it is important that you are able to do these mentally (with nothing but the answer written down; do not use scrap paper).
Problems 31-38
Copy the problem as you see it in the book, followed by an equal sign on the same line. The first step is written to the right of this equal sign, and then subsequent steps are written with the equal signs aligned and under the first step, as shown in Example 3. These problems will use the distributive property.
For Problem 31, the binomial(5x + 1) is multiplied times 3x^2, then it is multiplied times (-5x), and finally multiply (5x + 1) times 2.
Problems 39-44
Use FOIL for the algebraic solution (see Example 4) and use rectangles and squares for the geometric solution (see Example 8).
Problems 45-52
See Example 6 and 7.
It is a good idea to first use the binomial theorem using a and b. For Problem 45 write
(x+3)^3 = a^3 + 3a^2b + 3ab^2 + b^2
and then note that x = a and b = -1
Note: Homework Hints are given only for the Level 1 and Level 2 problems.
However, as you go through the book be sure you look at all the examples in the text. If you need hints for the Level 3 problems, check some sources for help on the internet (see the LINKS for that particular section. As a last resort, you can call the author at (707) 829-0606.
On the other hand, the problems designated “Problem Solving” generally require techniques that do not have textbook examples.
There are many sources for homework help on the internet.
Algebra.help
Here is a site where technology meets mathematics. You can search a particular topic or choose lessons, calculators, worksheets for extra practice or other resources.
http://www.algebrahelp.com/
Quick Math
This site provides online graphing calculators. This is especially useful if you do not have your own calculator.
http://www.quickmath.com/
The Math Forum @ Drexel
This site provides an internet mathematics library that can help if you need extra help. For additional homework help at this site, click one of the links in the right-hand column.
http://mathforum.org/