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Algebra 1

Inquiry Project Overview

Algebra 1Inquiry Project Overview

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In this project, you will revisit using an area model as a tool for finding products. You will start with a numerical area model, focusing on two-digit numbers and reviewing that you can partition a rectangle into smaller areas whose sum is the total area of the rectangle. Then, you will then apply this area model to algebraic expressions where an area model can be used to multiply polynomials. First, you will be asked to play with a simulation for a few minutes. This open play time allows for you to learn how to use a simulation for learning and discover how to interact with it. You will have an opportunity to share how you used the simulation during the open play time. Be sure you are aware of the controls and how to use the simulation.

When you engage with the activity sheet, you should be pausing to discuss some of your responses with a partner. Be prepared to stop and share your individual responses and partner discussions with the whole class. By the end of the lesson, you should have completed the activity sheets using the simulation, and should be able to use an area model to multiply two two-digit numbers or two polynomials, and explain why an area model can be used to find the product of two factors.

Project Activities

  1. Discovering an Area Model
  2. Understanding an Area Model
  3. Using an Area Model
  4. Applying an Area Model to Polynomials

Learning Targets

When you finish this project, you will have demonstrated how to:

  • Multiply two two-digit numbers using an area model.
  • Multiply two polynomials using an area model.
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© May 21, 2025 OpenStax. Textbook content produced by OpenStax is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike License . The OpenStax name, OpenStax logo, OpenStax book covers, OpenStax CNX name, and OpenStax CNX logo are not subject to the Creative Commons license and may not be reproduced without the prior and express written consent of Rice University.