Multiplying and Squaring Binomials Using the BOX Method

This is a lesson on showing students a method for multiplying binomials. This method is intended to prevent students from making mistakes when multiplying two binomials, as well as to see and understand the geometric properties of multiplying two binomials. To extend this lesson to next next lesson in the learning segment I would include squaring a binomial using the same method. The student would be able to see how the two middle terms cancel out.

The common core standards CCSS for this are...

Perform arithmetic operations on polynomials.
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSA.APR.A.1
Understand that polynomials form a system analogous to the integers, namely, they are closed under the operations of addition, subtraction, and multiplication; add, subtract, and multiply polynomials.