Factoring Special Products
Overview
Goal. Factor differences of squares and perfect square trinomials on sight, using the same patterns as the special products — and test the middle term before trusting a perfect square.
Difference of squares (definition). An expression of the form a² − b², which factors as (a + b)(a − b).
Lesson Notes
Flip through the notes one page at a time using the buttons below.
Lesson Video
Watch the lesson video.
Interactive Activity
Goal. Recognize and factor the two special forms: a difference of squares and a perfect square trinomial — by checking the squares first and testing the middle term.
Perfect square trinomial (definition). A trinomial that is the square of a binomial: a² + 2ab + b² = (a + b)², or a² − 2ab + b² = (a − b)².