We worked on an Algebra Readiness Assessment. It is a sample of some of the types of problems and concepts that a student should be able to do when they take Algebra 1.
Assignment: Homework complete numbers 6-10 on the Algebra Readiness Assessment
In this activity, Andrew focused on determining the zeros of a quadratic equation. He first used the graphing calculator app and then used the method of factoring to determine the zeros. He ended the session using the quadratic formula.
I introduced Sam to solving two equations with two unknowns by elimination and substitution. Then we practiced writing radical expressions in simplest form. We practiced combining like terms and solving word problems. Then we worked on finding the slope and y-intercept of a linear equation. We explored how the graphs of linear equations appear. Next we practiced finding the domain and range and identifying functions from both of these. Then we worked on setting up and solving ratios. Next we worked on factoring special cases such as when there’s a coefficient in front of the squared term and perfect squares. Then we worked on solving for a variable in literal terms. I gave Sam two parts of a Florida end-of-year exam. He worked on and finished about a third of the first half. He took both parts home to work on with the answers and explanations for the answers to practice.
Sam took the first part of an end-of-course Algebra 1 test. Then we went over problems involving exponential growth, changes in y over the change in x, and strategies to solve word problems.
9-7 Solving Systems of Linear and Quadratic Equations – We learned to describe a linear-quadratic system of equations and solve this system of equations by graphing, elimination, or substitution. For any system of two equations in two variables the solution consists of the ordered pairs that satisfy both equations. Then we began a Review and Test on Topic 9 Solving Quadratic Equations.
9-6 The Quadratic Formula and the Discriminant – We learned that the quadratic formula can be used to solve every quadratic equation and is particularly useful for those that cannot be easily factored. Then we learned to use the discriminant to determine the number and type of solutions to a quadratic equation. Next we began to review for an end-of-course cumulative exam.
Assignment: Complete the assigned problems for homework.
9-3 Rewriting Radical Expressions – We practiced finding square roots of whole numbers. Then we practiced finding square roots of variables with exponents. Next we practiced simplifying radical expressions with whole numbers and variables with exponents under the same radical. Then we took a quiz on Simplifying Radical Expressions. Then we moved on to multiplying radicals. We multiplied radicals under the square root and simplified the answer. 9-4 Solving Quadratic E and equations Using Square Roots – We learned that when the quadratic equation is in the form ax2 + bx = c, it can be solved by isolating the ax2 term, simplifying to remove the coefficients, and then taking the square root of each side of the equation. We practiced several of these type of problems where we take the square root and have two possible solutions. Next we reviewed completing the square to find the answers to a quadratic equation that is not able to be factored.
Assignment: Complete the assigned problems for homework.
