Identify the Degree of a Polynomial
Degree is determined by the greatest variable exponent attached to a nonzero coefficient.
About 20 minutes, plus any extended practice
Open lesson 1Algebra1: Polynomial Expressions
Polynomials combine terms with nonnegative integer variable powers. Their degree describes the highest power, while addition, multiplication and factoring preserve equivalent expressions that can be checked by expansion or substitution.
Before you begin
- Combine like terms; distribute; evaluate positive integer powers.
Choose by skill rather than age alone. Read with an adult when useful, revisit a lesson, or explore another grade.
Follow the lesson sequence
Add Polynomials by Matching Powers
Polynomial addition combines coefficients of identical powers separately.
About 20 minutes, plus any extended practice
Open lesson 2Distribute across Both Factors
Multiplying binomials requires multiplying each term of one factor by each term of the other.
About 20 minutes, plus any extended practice
Open lesson 3Factor a Difference of Two Squares
Opposite middle terms cancel in (u−v)(u+v), leaving u²−v².
About 20 minutes, plus any extended practice
Open lesson 4Review and transfer
After the lessons, try 4 new review cases and a practical task. Each answer has an explanation and a link back to the related lesson.
Open the unit reviewGuest answers are temporary. Keep your own paper or document; this unit does not certify completion or record a school grade.
Topic references
- OpenStax mathematical topic reference: topic reference — Algebra1: Polynomial Expressions
These references informed the topic selection. They do not certify complete standards alignment.