Mississippi Math FA.A.33
The Standard
Factor polynomials using the greatest common factor and factor quadratics that have only rational zeros.
2025 Mississippi College- and Career-Readiness Standards for Mathematics
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students take out the greatest common factor from a polynomial. They factor quadratics with rational zeros into linear factors, then multiply to check their work.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student factors 12x²+14x-6 as 2(3x-1)(2x+3). They can multiply the factors to get the original expression.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may take out 2 but stop before factoring the quadratic. They may use factors that work for x² but not for 6x², or miss a negative sign.
How to Assess It
- Exit ticket: Factor 12x²+14x-6 completely. Multiply your factors to check.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Use algebra tiles to arrange x²+5x+6 into a rectangle, then label its sides x+2 and x+3.
Ask pairs to explain why 3x²+12x+12 factors as 3(x+2)², then check by multiplying.
Play a match game with cards for 12x²+14x-6, 2(3x-1)(2x+3), x²+5x+6, and (x+2)(x+3); verify each match.
Draw a rectangular garden with area 2x²+7x+3 square meters; factor the area to label both side lengths.
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Printable FA.A.33 Worksheet
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