The Art of Multiplying Binomials with the Area Model: A Colorful Journey
UPDATE: This blog post was featured in Episode #009 of #MisterMarxMathAdventures on YouTube.
Catch that latest blog post here: 🔗 https://www.mistermarx.com/blog/mister-marx-math-adventures-009-multiplying-binomials-with-the-area-model 🔗
Or watch the full episode over on YouTube: 🔗 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABqWUt6eYzo 🔗
Are you ready for a colorful journey into the world of multiplying binomials? The area model is a visually appealing method for multiplying binomials that can help make the process easier to understand. With the area model, we will be using colored blocks to multiply binomials & will witness patterns emerge right before our eyes. Don't worry if you're not sure what you're looking at, the point is to challenge yourself to think outside the box & explore.
Take a look at this animated gif I made. It shows the multiplication of two binomials, (x+3) and (x+4), using the area model. As you watch it, I encourage you to note what you notice & what you wonder about the animated gif including its components/pieces. I recommend you watch completely-through one-time prior to reading on.
As you continue to observe this gif, consider the following questions:
What patterns or structures do you see in the arrangement of the colored blocks?
How do the blocks relate to the math itself?
What do the GREEN blocks represent in the area model? What do the BLUE blocks represent? What do the YELLOW block represent?
How do the blocks interact to create the final product?
By using the area model & visualizing the multiplication of binomials with colored blocks, we can see the patterns & structure of the process in a way that is easy to understand. Remember, the goal is to foster curiosity & encourage exploration. So, don't be afraid to experiment & have fun with it. Happy multiplying!
BONUS: How does the area model relate to the box method? Check out Mister Marx’s /Power Pair Series/ Box It Up: The Simple Solution to Multiplying Polynomials to learn how to multiply polynomials & discover any relationship between these two methods!
