Factoring Binomials: Difference of Perfect Squares

In this video, Miss Smith explains how to factor binomials by identifying differences of perfect squares. She begins with an introduction to binomials and perfect squares, providing examples of perfect squares like 4 and 16. The video includes a detailed walkthrough of factoring x^2 - 9 and emphasizes the importance of checking for a greatest common factor (GCF) before factoring. Miss Smith also covers cases where binomials are not factorable, such as when there is no difference of perfect squares. The tutorial is designed to simplify the process of factoring binomials, making it accessible and easy to understand.

What is the first step in factoring a binomial?

• Check if it is a difference of perfect squares

• Check if it is a sum of cubes

• Check if it is a trinomial

• Check if it is a four-term polynomial

Which of the following is a perfect square?

• 7

• 16

• 10

• 20

What is the square root of 9?

• 5

• 4

• 3

• 2

In the example x^2 - 9, what are the factors?

• (x + 9)(x - 9)

• (x + 3)(x - 3)

• (x - 3)(x - 3)

• (x + 3)(x + 3)

What should you check for first when factoring a binomial?

• If it has a GCF

• If it is a trinomial

• If it is a four-term polynomial

• If it is a sum of cubes

What is the GCF of 18 and 32?

• 2

• 4

• 6

• 8

After factoring out the GCF, what is the next step?

• Check if the remaining binomial is a trinomial

• Check if the remaining binomial is a four-term polynomial

• Check if the remaining binomial is a difference of perfect squares

• Check if the remaining binomial is a sum of cubes

What is the square root of 16?

• 5

• 2

• 3

• 4

What does it mean if a binomial is not a difference of perfect squares?

• It is factorable

• It is not factorable

• It is a trinomial

• It is a four-term polynomial

What is the result of factoring x^2 + 4?

• (x + 2)(x + 2)

• (x - 2)(x - 2)

• (x + 4)(x - 4)

• Not factorable