Algebra

II
Syllabus

Course Description
The purpose of this course is to satisfy the Algebra II requirement of the Common Core
Mathematics Standards recently adopted by the State of Ohio. This upper level course
fits into an overall program of mathematics studies with a rigorous academic core by
extending what students have learned in the introductory-level mathematics courses as
well as introducing more advanced topics. These advanced topics include linear
equations, inequalities, and systems, quadratic, polynomial, exponential, logarithmic,
and rational functions, equations, and expressions.

Pre-requisite Courses

Algebra I

Geometry

Instructional Philosophy

This course introduces students to key concepts and theories that provide a foundation
for further study in mathematics (College Algebra, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, and beyond)
and increases students mathematic literacy, problem solving, and critical thinking skills.
The problem solving and critical thinking skills that students learn in Algebra II are
valuable tools that can be taken to and applied in other disciplines.

The kind of learning activities in which students will engage can be described as
cooperative group investigations, partner collaboration, or individual work (depending
on the topic and assignment.) All of which are designed to help students understand and
explain the key concepts presented in this course, incorporating mathematical
reasoning, analysis, communication skills, and real world applications. Students will
learn and apply the principles of Algebra II while employing 21st Century Skills, including
creativity/innovation, communication, collaboration, critical thinking, problem solving,
and decision-making. Students will experience hands-on activities and participate in
class discussions with open-ended problem solving.

Students will conduct computer-assisted research and/or assignments and use word
processing to complete some assignments and projects. Students will also use
collaborative tools (wiki, blogs, etc.) to help them achieve course goals by creating
multi-media presentations.

Course Goals

Review linear equations, functions, and inequalities.

Manipulate, solve, and graph systems with two equations and two variables
Manipulate, solve, and graph systems with three equations and three variables.
Manipulate matrices.
Graph quadratic functions.
Manipulate and solve quadratic functions by graphing, factoring, finding square
roots, completing the square, and using the Quadratic Formula.
Manipulate, solve, and graph polynomial and radical expressions and equations.
Manipulate, solve, and graph exponential, logarithmic, and rational expressions
and equations.
Students will be expected to demonstrate skills that will be valuable not only in
this course but in future educational and vocational settings including (but not
limited to) reading for comprehension, writing coherently, oral presentations,
and technology usage.

Major Assignments/Projects

Homework will be assigned throughout each chapter, typically on a daily basis.

Quizzes will be given throughout each chapter based on teacher discretion.
Chapter reviews will more often than not precede chapter tests.
There will be a test at the end of each chapter.
Weekly reading assignments will be evaluated with a written summary.
Students will be required to complete one weeklong project each semester.
Group collaboration will be critical to the success of the project. Each group will
be responsible for creating a multimedia review of a chapter covered in class.
Groups and chapters are assigned randomly. Groups may choose to create an
interactive poster (Glogster,) or a brochure (created from software such as iWork
or Keynote.) Teacher discretion will be used if groups would like to present their
review differently. Each group will present their review during the two days prior
to each semester exam.
A cumulative exam will be given at the end of each semester.

To determine that students are achieving course goals at a proficient level, students are
required to produce work at a proficient or advanced level. Students will demonstrate
their proficiency by completing all homework assignments, reviews, quizzes, tests,
reading assignments, projects, and exams. All of which will require students to apply,
analyze, synthesize, and/or evaluate concepts, skills, and information learned (and
discovered) in class, based on content standards. These assignments may also require
students to decipher or produce graphs, tables, and/or charts.

Course Assessment/Grading Plan

Both formative and summative assessment will be used to evaluate student
performance. Formative assessments will consist of daily verbal feedback, homework
assignments, chapter reviews, and quiz evaluations. Summative assessments will consist
of chapter tests, reading assignments, semester projects, and semester exams.

Assignment Type
Tests and Quizzes

Description
Weight
Individual assessments of student mastery of course 70%
goals. Administered during class time.
Homework
Intended to help student master course goals.
30%
Chapter reviews are also included in this section.
Homework is primarily completed outside of class
time but there will be limited class time devoted to
homework.
Reading Assignments Weekly written summary of assigned article, essay, or
excerpt. Summary should be legible, with proper
grammar and punctuation.
Semester Project
Multi-media review of a chapter covered in class. This
is a group project.
Semester Exam
A cumulative exam designed to assess student
*
knowledge of the entire semester.
*This grade goes on the report card.


Grade
Scale
Description of Work
A
93 100%
Consistently demonstrates an advanced level of quality.
Thorough, extensive, and complete. Shows mastery in
evaluating, synthesizing, and applying mathematical
principles.
B
85 92%
Consistently demonstrates a proficient level of quality.
Characterized by analysis and application of mathematical
principles.
C
77 84%
Demonstrates a basic level of quality. Shows a recognition and
comprehension of mathematical principles. All components of
the work are complete.
D
70 76%
The work is below basic with limited understanding or
comprehension of mathematical principles. Some components
of the work may be incomplete or poor quality.
F
Below 70%
The work is below basic with little understanding or
comprehension of mathematical principles. Work is of poor
quality or incomplete.

This class uses Progress Book. Please utilize that resource.

Re-Do Policy
There is no re-do policy at this time for Algebra II. Check with your teacher for more
information.

Late or Missing Work Policy

Students are expected to turn in assignments as they are due. Late assignments will be
given partial credit. Missing work will eventually turn into zero credit. Check with your
teacher for more information.

Students with a verified excused absence are allowed to make up late work without
penalty in accordance with the school policy published in the student handbook.

Extra-Help

Study Tables are available every Tuesday and Thursday after school from 2:40 3:40 for
students who need extra help. Extra help will also be available from your teacher by
appointment before or after school or at a time convenient for all involved.