In this experience we solve a polynomial problem that involves falling objects and isolating the variable in a polynomial.

This is part of my “Long Way Around” series. I share how I might approach a problem where the answer is not just obvious; how I might approach a problem, not during a test or a competition, but when I am at home and have time to deeply understand the problem. I understand the structure and application of the problem. I use lists and heuristics to help justify my approach. I carefully monitor my resources as I solve the problem. I look back at my work to see how it compares with others’ approaches and thinking about what do I wonder.

In my “Can You Solve it in 3 Minutes” series, we practice like we might for a test, after we have deeply understood it.