1. 45. Maths Headstart L2: Solving Quadratic Equations [2021]
This week we continued our headstart math lesson with solving quadratic equations (ie, x to the power of 2 functions). Step 1: Shift all the terms to one side, ensuring the arrangement is in descending powers of x. (ax2+bx+c = 0) Step 2: Factorise the function (using our special formulas + calculator) Step 3: Equate each bracket to zero and solve (AB = 0, either A = 0 or B = 0) We have seen that for quadratic equations, we expect to have 2 solutions. (This is NOT always the case; we will explore further into quadratics in 2022) To solve these equations, we learnt a shortcut, using our calculator to tackle the factorisation portion. In 2022, when we revisit this portion, we will explore further on how the calculator does the “guess and check”. Solving equations are also more fun if we are expected to come up with the equation! So, we also did some word problems. Things to note when forming equation: 1) Define our variables. We usually set it to be what we want to solve for in the given question. 2) Form an equation relating the variables defined. 3) Solve the equation, and make a conclusion. To conclude our lesson, we had fun with Kahoot! as we end off our headstart on Algebra.