Students will learn how to use the difference squared formula to simplify nested square roots. For example, \(\sqrt{21 - 8\sqrt{5}}\) simplifies to \(4 - \sqrt{5}.\) Students will also learn how to check their answers. Here's a good video on all this.
Next, give your students these challenges:
- Shapes on the Playground by NRICH
- All Wrapped Up by NRICH
- 2017 AMC 8, Problem 9
- 2019 AMC 8, Problem 22
- 2016 AMC 8, Problem 8
- Connect Four by Pierce School: Problem / Solution
Conclude by leading this investigation:
Circus Tent Puzzle
by MathPickle