Quadratic equations: factoring

Which approach to the theory-and-research cycle does the following sequence reflect: (1) specific observations suggest generalizations, (2) generalizations produce a tentative theory, (3) the theory is tested through the formation of hypotheses, and (4) hypotheses may provide suggestions for additional observations?

The table shown below gives the approximate enrollment at the university of michigan every fifty years. how many more students were enrolled at the university of michigan in 1950 than in 1900?

Multiply the polynomials (x+3)(x^2-6x+5)