Year 10: Probable Factors

Objectives

• Apply the distributive law to the expansion of algebraic expressions, including binomials, and collect like terms where appropriate (ACMNA213)

• Expand binomial products and factorise monic quadratic expressions using a variety of strategies (ACMNA233)

• Explore the connection between algebraic and graphical representations of relations such as simple quadratics, circles and exponentials using digital technology as appropriate (ACMNA239)

• Describe the results of two- and three-step chance experiments, both with and without replacements, assign probabilities to outcomes and determine probabilities of events. Investigate the concept of independence (ACMSP246)

Vocabulary

• Quadratic Equations,
• Distributivity,
• Monomials,
• Binomials,
• Probability,
• Experiments
  
  

About the Lesson

Students create a simulation using TI-nspire that produces four dice rolls simultaneously. The outcome from each is used to form a single quadratic equation. TI-nspire is then used to determine if the quadratic factorises, a simulation that is repeated by students to obtain an approximate answer to the questions "What is the probability that a randomly generated quadratic will factorise?" Students are then guided through a series of scaffolded questions to determine the theoretical probability.