"simplify" in general

Viewing 2 posts - 1 through 2 (of 2 total)
  • Author
    Posts
  • #3136
    csteadman
    Member

    I know “simplify” is not part of the CCSS for good reason, but I am wondering if their is an easy phrase people can fall back on since “simplify” has been a crutch for so long. For example, when multiplying polynomials or substituting into the quadratic formula, can we coin the phrase “clean it up?”

    #3150
    Bill McCallum
    Keymaster

    Well, really, we were not trying to be word police here; I don’t see any reason why you couldn’t just use the word “simplify” on occasion. But when there is a more precise term available, use it. For example, when you multiply two polynomials you might expand the product, or you might leave it in factored form. When you substitute numbers into the quadratic formula, then I think it is appropriate to talk about simplifying the resulting numerical expression.

Viewing 2 posts - 1 through 2 (of 2 total)
  • You must be logged in to reply to this topic.