Investigating Algebra Two (Part 1 of 5)
In this part of Investigating Algebra two we will be focusing on furthering our knowledge of Quadratics, Complex numbers, and polynomials. We will learn these skills with a combination of lecture, working on practice problems, inquire questions, and investigations. All five parts of Investigating Algebra two make a full curriculum. For more information about what will be taught in each part please email me.

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 2-3 quizzes and 1-2 projects 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)

Core objectives:
Represent complex numbers in a variety of ways.
• Extend the number system to include complex numbers in a + bi form.
• Identify the use for the square root of a negative number and define the imaginary unit.
• Simplify square roots, including those containing negative radicands.
• Simplify problems using mathematical operations.
• Add, subtract, multiply, and divide complex numbers.
• Raise the imaginary unit to a power.
• Simplify radical expressions of any index.
• Evaluate, solve, and analyze mathematical situations using algebraic properties
and symbols.
• Solve quadratic equations by factoring and the quadratic formula.
• Solve radical equations, including those with extraneous solutions.
• Write a quadratic equation when given the rational roots or zeros of the function.
• Represent quantitative relationships using mathematical models and symbols.
• Solve real world problems using the methods for solving quadratic equations.
• Find the vertex, maximum or minimum values, intercepts, and axis of symmetry of
a quadratic function.
• Apply the steps of factoring.
• Factor a quadratic trinomial with a leading coefficient.
• Factor using multiple steps.
• Specify locations and describe spatial relationships using coordinate geometry.
• Graph quadratic functions.
• Simplify problems using mathematical operations.
• Simplify numerical expressions with exponents of any degree.
• Add, subtract, and multiply polynomial expressions with any number of terms.
• Divide polynomial expressions using synthetic division.
• Evaluate, solve, and analyze mathematical situations using algebraic properties
and symbols.
• Solve polynomial equations by factoring.
• Recognize that negative exponents mean reciprocals.
• Use synthetic substitution to evaluate polynomial functions.
• Apply the steps of factoring.
• Factor a quadratic tri-nomial with a leading coefficient.
• Factor by grouping.
• Factor using multiple steps.
• Factor polynomials of 3rd, 4th, or 5th degree.
• Specify locations and describe spatial relationships using coordinate geometry.
• Graph polynomial functions.
• Simplify problems using mathematical operations.
• Finding the zeros of a polynomial function.

Schedule (Subject to change)
Week 1-4	Quadratic Functions
Week 5-6	Complex numbers and inequalities
Week 7-8	Polynomials 

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.