Understanding Polynomials and Monomials

Mr. Buffington introduces polynomials, focusing on vocabulary and understanding what constitutes a polynomial and a monomial. He explains the structure of polynomials, including binomials and trinomials, and how to determine the degree of a polynomial. The lesson concludes with arranging polynomials in order of their degree, preparing students for future lessons on operations with polynomials.

What is the primary focus of the lesson on polynomials?

• Understanding polynomial vocabulary

• Solving polynomial equations

• Deriving polynomial formulas

• Graphing polynomials

What is a polynomial composed of?

• One or more monomials joined by addition or subtraction

• A single variable

• A combination of fractions and decimals

• Only whole numbers

Which of the following is a monomial?

• x^(-1)

• 7z

• 4y/2

• 3x^2 + 5

Why is x^(-1) not considered a monomial?

• It has a negative coefficient

• It has a variable in the denominator

• It has a negative exponent

• It is a fraction

Which of the following is an example of a polynomial?

• 5x^1/2 + 7

• 3/4x + 2

• x^(-2) + 4

• 2x^2 + 3x - 5

What is a binomial?

• A polynomial with two terms

• A polynomial with three terms

• A polynomial with one term

• A polynomial with four terms

How is the degree of a polynomial determined?

• By the number of terms

• By adding the coefficients

• By the sum of all exponents

• By the highest degree of any monomial in it

What is the degree of the monomial 3x^2y^3?

• 3

• 5

• 6

• 2

How should polynomials be ordered?

• By coefficient size

• Alphabetically by variable

• By decreasing degree

• By increasing degree