Memorize The Quadratic Formula ... In Seconds

Ah ... the venerable Quadratic Formula. Algebra students everywhere have to memorize this well known formula for solving quadratic equations of the form: ax² + bx + c = 0.

Many students in early algebra courses lose critical test and quiz points just because they haven't yet fully committed the Quadratic Formula to memory.

I recently came across a brilliant way to do so almost effortlessly ... a memory trick so sublimely ridiculous I couldn't help but think of the famous line: "This is so crazy ... it just might work."

(Sung slowly to the tune of "Pop Goes the Weasel")

"X is equal to negative B

Plus or minus the square root

Of B squared minus 4AC

ALL

Over 2A."

Silly.

Effective.

Try it!

-----


Copyright © 2006-present: Christopher R. Borland. All rights reserved.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Exponential Functions – What You Need to Know

Image
Exponential models are useful in a number of real-world scenarios, from predicting declines in population to forecasting growth in asset values. This can all get rather complicated, and both the SAT and ACT require some familiarity with exponential functions.  Fortunately, only knowledge of bare basics is required.  Following is a list of things you need to know about exponential functions.  - Simple definition Exponential functions have an unknown in the exponent. Exponential functions – general form y = A*B^x. x is usually time, t. Constants A is the “initial value” (y when x=0). B is the “multiplier.” Growth factor B = (1±r), where r is rate of growth/decay. (Time and rate units must match). Parent Graph Rising curve through (0,A). Horizontal asymptote y = 0. - For practice, search Google for worksheets covering any or all of the above, pick a worksheet that provides answers, complete the worksheet, analyze any mistakes, and redo it until you can complete that workshee...
Read more

How to Read SAT/ACT Math Questions

Image
Success in mathematics is rooted in efficient reading. Most math mistakes on the SAT/ACT are, in fact, reading mistakes! Learning to avoid them is an opportunity to quickly and significantly boost scores without learning any new math. Four simple strategies help ensure students aren’t misreading math questions or failing to catch important information. The Middle Lane The most effective way to prevent reading mistakes is to slow down a little. It’s counter-intuitive, but slowing down can actually help one move more quickly through the test, since doing so leads to better comprehension, less confusion and stress, and far less re-reading. All this contributes to stronger SAT/ACT math scores. A comfortable, moderate reading pace is the goal. The middle lane of the freeway. Not too fast, not too slow. Students should no faster than they can fully understand what they're reading.  Read Party-By-Part When reading gets tough, the best thing to do is slow down, read each sentence pa...
Read more

How to Fail a Test with Dignity

Image
Sometimes, you just can't win. In that case, there's no harm or shame in surrender. So why not have a sense of humor about it? These students tried and failed, but succeeded in turning loss into laughs. - ----- Contact Chris borlandeducational.com Copyright © 2006-present: Christopher R. Borland. All rights reserved.
Read more