This learning progression focuses on the cluster of performing arithmetic operations on polynomials in the Arithmetic with Polynomials & Rational Expressions domain of the Common Core State Standards for Mathematics. The purpose of this learning progression is for students to understand that polynomials are like integers in the fact that they are “closed” in regards to addition, subtractions and multiplication. In other words students should be able to recognize that a polynomial plus a polynomial, a polynomial minus a polynomial, and a polynomial multiplied by a polynomial will always result in a polynomial.
This learning progression will utilize Chapter 6: Polynomial Functions from the textbook Holt McDougal Algebra 2. Due
to the layout of the textbook, the operations of polynomials have been split apart; sections 6-1: Polynomials, focuses on
an introduction to polynomials and addition and subtraction of polynomials, while section 6-2: Multiplying polynomials
focuses on multiplying polynomials.