Factoring polynomials is a very important skill in 10th-grade Algebra I. Here are some easy ways to practice it:

1. Look for Common Factors:

   • First, find the greatest common factor (GCF).
   • For example, in the expression $6x^2 + 9x$, the GCF is $3x$.
   • So, you can rewrite it as $3x(2x + 3)$.

2. Factoring Trinomials:

   • This means breaking down expressions with three parts (like $x^2 + 5x + 6$).
   • You need to find two numbers that multiply to the last number (the constant) and add up to the middle number (the linear coefficient).
   • For $x^2 + 5x + 6$, the numbers are $2$ and $3$, so the factors are $(x + 2)(x + 3)$.

3. Difference of Squares:

   • This is a pattern you can spot. It looks like $a^2 - b^2 = (a + b)(a - b)$.
   • For example, in $x^2 - 9$, you can factor it as $(x + 3)(x - 3)$.

4. Practice Problems:

   • The best way to get good at this is by solving lots of problems.
   • Try these examples:
     • Factor $x^2 + 7x + 12$.
     • Factor $2x^2 - 8x$.
     • Factor $x^2 - 16$.

By mastering these strategies, you'll become much better at factoring!