Adding and Subtracting Advanced Polynomials

Miacademy & MiaPrep Learning Channel

This instructional video provides a comprehensive guide to adding and subtracting advanced polynomials, specifically focusing on cubic expressions. The instructor, Randy, walks viewers through three distinct examples, progressing from straightforward addition to more complex subtraction scenarios that require careful sign management and language interpretation. The video utilizes a digital whiteboard format to visually demonstrate the step-by-step process of grouping and combining like terms. The content covers key algebraic concepts including identifying like terms, distributing negative signs during subtraction, and translating textual math problems into algebraic expressions. A significant portion of the video is dedicated to the common pitfall of subtracting polynomials: failing to distribute the negative sign to every term in the subtrahend. The instructor uses analogies and visual cues, such as circling matching terms, to reinforce these procedural rules. For educators, this video serves as an excellent resource for Algebra I or II students who are transitioning from basic binomial operations to more complex polynomial arithmetic. It effectively addresses the "subtract from" language trap that often confuses students and provides clear modeling of how to organize work to avoid sign errors. The step-by-step pacing makes it suitable for direct instruction, review, or remediation for students struggling with polynomial operations.