Question

Complete the statements to explain how to factor x2 + x – 12 using algebra tiles.

Answer 1

We need to solve for the x values in the given expression x² + x -12. First, we need to equate the problem equal to zero such that it became x² + x -12 =0. Next, we need to think of two numbers which will result to -12 when multiplied and the second term which is 1x is being met. Such as the solution is shown below:
The two numbers are +4 and -3 such as:
x² + x - 12 = 0
(x+4) (x-3)  =0
Solving for x values, we have:
x + 4 =0
x1 = -4
x - 3 =0
x2 = 3

The answers are x1 = -4 and x2 = 3.

Answer 2

1 positive X tile

12 negative unit tiles

three zeros

(x-3)(x+4)