Quadratic equations

Senior High 6 questions

What quadratic equations means

You learn to solve equations with an x² term by turning them into simpler linear factors or by using a standard formula. This helps you find exact answers quickly and check your work in later algebra topics.

What you will practise

Factorise quadratic expressions and set each factor to zero
Solve simple equations such as x² - 9 = 0
Handle equations with a common factor, like x(x + 4) = 0
Use the quadratic formula when factorisation is difficult
Check answers by substituting them back into the original equation

Before you start

You should already be comfortable with expanding brackets, factorising simple expressions, and solving one-step linear equations. You also need to know positive and negative integers well.

Worked example

One question from this skill's own question bank, shown with its full working.

Question

Solve x² − 5x + 6 = 0.

x = 1 or 6
x = 2 or 3
x = −2 or −3
x = 5 or 6

Answer: x = 2 or 3

Working: Factorise: (x − 2)(x − 3) = 0, so x = 2 or x = 3.

Common mistakes to avoid

Forgetting that if a product is zero, one factor must be zero
Missing a minus sign when solving equations like x² = 9
Not taking out the common factor before factorising fully
Using the formula with the wrong signs for a, b and c

Curriculum and exam alignment

Ghana GES SHS syllabusWASSCE

This topic normally appears in SHS algebra work, where you build from factorisation to more general equation solving. It supports WASSCE preparation because quadratic questions often test both factorisation and the formula.

Curriculum notes are a general guide to where this work normally sits. Always check the syllabus your school or examination body is currently using.

Related skills

Other SHS Core: Algebra & Equations skills in Maths, at the same point in the course.

Simultaneous equations & inequalitiesSHS

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Practise quadratic equations

6 questions with a worked answer after every attempt, and a SmartScore that tracks how close you are to mastery.

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