Adding and Subtracting Polynomials: Crossword

Learning Resource Type

Learning Activity

Subject Area

Mathematics

Grade(s)

9, 10, 11, 12

Overview

At the beginning of a lesson on adding and subtracting polynomials, the students will complete a vocabulary crossword to build their vocabulary content knowledge.

This resource was created as a result of the ALEX Resource Development Summit.

Phase

Before/Engage
Mathematics (2019) Grade(s): 09-12 - Algebra I with Probability

MA19.A1.7

Add, subtract, and multiply polynomials, showing that polynomials form a system analogous to the integers, namely, they are closed under the operations of addition, subtraction, and multiplication.

UP:MA19.A1.7

Vocabulary

  • Polynomials
  • Closure
  • Analogous system

Knowledge

Students know:
  • Corresponding rules of arithmetic of integers, specifically what it means for the integers to be closed under addition, subtraction, and multiplication, and not under division.
  • Procedures for performing addition, subtraction, and multiplication on polynomials.

Skills

Students are able to:
  • Communicate the connection between the rules for arithmetic on integers and the corresponding rules for arithmetic on polynomials.
  • Accurately perform combinations of operations on various polynomials.

Understanding

Students understand that:
  • There is an operational connection between the arithmetic on integers and the arithmetic on polynomials.

Learning Objectives

Students will identify key vocabulary that is a prerequisite to adding and subtracting polynomials.

Activity Details

  1. To begin the activity, the teacher will distribute the Adding and Subtracting Polynomials Crossword to each student.
  2. The students will use their textbooks to help them find the words for the crossword hints.
  3. The teacher will set a timer for ten minutes.  
  4. After ten minutes, the teacher will need to put a copy of the crossword on the board and the teacher and the students will complete this together.
  5. The teacher will need to enforce or explain any words and definitions that the students struggled with during the review of the crossword.

Assessment Strategies

The teacher will assess student content understanding by completing the crossword on the board as a group to identify the vocabulary that is a prerequisite to adding and subtracting polynomials. 

Variation Tips

The teacher may choose to allow more or less time as is available.  The teacher may choose to allow the students to grade their own assignments as it is covered on the board.  The teacher may allow students to work in pairs to help each other with the crossword. 

The lesson could also be used as an after-activity to reinforce the lesson's vocabulary.

Background / Preparation

The teacher would need to print enough Adding and Subtracting Polynomials Crosswords for the class.

The teacher will need to point out that answers with two words should have an empty space on the crossword between words. 

ALSDE LOGO