TEACHING APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR VISUALLY REPRESENTING POLYNOMIAL EXPRESSIONS

摘要

An apparatus for teaching polynomial expressions includes an arrangement of groups of rows and columns that represent the variables of factors of a polynomial expression. Each group of columns or rows has a different width or height, respectively, and represents a different variable in the polynomial expression. The apparatus enables an algebra student to visualize the rules that apply to polynomial expressions. In one embodiment, the rows and columns are defined by a plurality of pegs or nails fixed to a supporting member. Each factor of the polynomial expression is represented by isolating the variables of the factors by extending an elastic member around the appropriate pegs. The intersection of the two isolated factors represents the product of the factors.