Quadratic Formula – Derivation, Use and Strategy

Description:

This comprehensive worksheet series supports learners in understanding, proving, and applying the Quadratic Formula (ABC-formule) . The activities move beyond memorization by engaging students in conceptual reasoning, algebraic manipulation, and strategic problem-solving.

The resource includes:
- A cut-and-paste proof activity to derive the formula step by step
- Structured example problems and guided calculation practice
- Decision strategies for choosing among different solving methods (factoring, completing the square, quadratic formula)
- Reflection prompts focusing on interpretation, rounding, and language output

This aligns strongly with Kerndoelen 21 and 25:
- Building and explaining mathematical arguments
- Working with formulas and representations in context

From a CLIL perspective, it:
- Deepens academic language (CALP) with terminology like discriminant, simplify, square root, complete the square
- Encourages metacognition and justification of steps
- Supports scaffolded instruction using visuals, step-by-step guides, and teacher support materials
- Encourages verbal and written output in mathematics using full sentences

This activity is particularly valuable for language-aware math teaching, as it integrates visual literacy, grammar for reasoning (e.g., passive voice, conditionals), and sequencing connectors (“first,” “then,” “therefore”).