Investigating Algebra 2 Part 3 (Of 5)

In this part of Investigating Algebra two we will be focusing on furthering our knowledge of Exponential function as well as learn about logarithmic functions and polynomial functions. We will learn these skills with a combination of lecture, working on practice problems, inquire questions, and investigations.

Students will have 3 days of live instruction per week but will be assigned enough work for them to practice the skills 5 days a week. 

Grading: During this class 2 quizzes and a project will be assigned. If sent to teacher, they will be graded. At the end of class all students will receive a certificate of completion. Those who turned in all graded assignments will receive a grade. At the end of part 5 a final will be given. Students who complete the final will get a break down of skills assessment.

Materials
A ruler (12 inches and 30 cm)
Graph paper (Printable provided)
Notebook
Graphing calculator
Workbooks (printable in classroom)

Objectives
Determine the multiplier for exponential growth and decay
Write and evaluate exponential expressions to model growth and decay situations
Classify an exponential function as representing exponential growth or exponential decay. 
Calculate the growth of investments under various conditions.
Write equivalent forms for exponential and logarithmic equations.
Use the definitions of exponential and logarithmic functions to solve equations.
Simplify and evaluate expressions involving logarithms
Solve equations involving logarithms
Define and use the common logarithmic function to solve exponential and logarithmic equations.
Evaluate logarithmic expressions by using the change-of-base formula.
Evaluate natural exponential and natural logarithmic function
Model exponential growth and decay processes.
Solve logarithmic and exponential equations by using algebra and graphs
Model and solve real-world problems involving exponential and logarithmic relationships
Identify, evaluate, add, and subtract polynomials
Classify polynomials, and describe the shapes of their graphs
Identify and describe the important features of the graph of a polynomial function.
Use a polynomial function to model real-world data
Multiply polynomials and divide one polynomial by another by using long division and synthetic division
Use the remainder and factor theorems to solve problems.
Solve polynomial equations
Find the real zeros of polynomial functions and state the multiplicity of each
Use the rational root theorem and the complex conjugate root theorem to find the zeros of a polynomial function
Use the fundamental theorem to write a polynomial function given sufficient information about its zeros


Schedule: Subject to change
Week one: Workbook one: Exponential functions
Week two: Workbook one: Exponential functions
Week three: Workbook two: Logarithmic functions
Week four: Workbook two: Applications of common logarithms
Week five: Workbook two: The natural Base e
Week six: Workbook 3: Polynomial functions and their graphs
Week seven: Workbook 3: solving polynomial equations
Week eight: Bonus workbook: A preview of Transformations

I like to show the students the way math rules work so that it is easier to remember them. This way the curiosity of knowing how something works will move the gears of critical thinking. After I have shown them a pattern and why it works. I will ask them to apply it to a hard problem. If they can use these skills in different ways, I know they have mastered the concepts. I believe to memorize math is not understanding, but to apply math is not only understanding but fluency! To obtain this level of understanding, I will lead the students on a journey to discovering math through discussion, observation, and application of the math being used. If this is the kind of math class, you want then I am the teacher for you.