Open Middle®
Directions: Using the digits 1 to 9, at most one time each, place a digit in each box to find the largest possible Greatest Common Factor for the polynomial. Then factor out the GCF.
Extension: Repeat the activity with a two-digit GCF.
Hint
Would it be more strategic to select the coefficients of the polynomial first or the GCF first?
Given a GCF, how can you choose appropriate coefficients of the polynomial?
Given a GCF, how can you choose appropriate coefficients of the polynomial?
Answer
GCF = 9. Coefficients can be any combination of 18, 27, 36, or 45, 54, 63, 72, 81.
For the extension problem: GCF = 18. Coefficients are 36, 54, and 72.
For the extension problem: GCF = 18. Coefficients are 36, 54, and 72.
Source: David Groat