Oh, For the Love of Logarithms!
In this 3-week class, students will be introduced to the history, concept, and properties of logarithms. We will look at how they are used as functions, as the inverse of exponential functions, and as a tool for simplifying and solving.
Erin Townley
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(1)
What's included
6 live meetings
5 hrs 30 mins in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Homework will be given after each class, and it will be discussed and reviewed in the next class if needed. Answer keys will be provided for students to be able to check their work as they complete, but it will not be required to submit the homework for grade.Certificate of Completion
1 after class completionClass Experience
US Grade 9 - 11
Intermediate Level
This course is intended to give students an opportunity to learn about the concept of logarithms, as well as their properties, applications, and functions. It is intended to be an introduction to logarithms, so no prior understanding of them is required. However, it will be helpful for a learner to have an understanding of the rules of exponents prior to taking the course. Although we will have a set amount of content to cover each class, the class dynamics and procedures will be tailored to the unique make-up of each group. Larger groups will have more opportunity to work with partners and small group dynamics, while smaller groups will have more individual check-ins with me. The class will meet twice a week, and each meeting is 55 min to allow for ample time to explore, discuss, and practice the concepts presented. I encourage my students to be active learners by asking and answering questions, offering explanations, etc., as this enriches the experience and the learning for all students. There will be no required homework assigned in this class, but optional homework assignments/extra practice will be provided after each class meeting for students to complete when needed.
Learning Goals
Students will be introduced to the idea of logarithms and will understand how to evaluate them.Students will graph, evaluate and transform logarithmic functions to better understand the characteristics.
Syllabus
6 Lessons
over 3 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to Logarithms
In this lesson, we will learn about the history, definition, and basic characteristics of logarithms. We will look at logarithms through two lenses: 1) the logarithmic function, and 2) logarithms as an operation 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Properties of Logarithms
In this lesson, we will extend our understanding of logarithms by connecting the properties of logarithms to the properties of exponents. We will see how the properties relate to logarithmic functions and expressions. 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
More with Logarithmic Functions
In this lesson, we will focus on the graph, characteristics, transformations, domain and range of logarithmic functions. We will also look more closely at the inverse relationship between logarithmic functions and exponential functions. 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
The Number e and the Natural Log
In this lesson, we will explore the usefulness of the number e and its inverse, the natural log. We will see why these are used in a variety of situations and show how they still adhere to all the same properties as other exponential bases and logarithms. 55 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Pre-Requisites
Students should have completed a full Algebra 1 course and be familiar with the properties of exponents prior to taking this class.
Supply List
Paper Pen or Pencil Graphing Calculator (Numworks is what I will be demonstrating with, but that calculator is not required for students)
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined June, 2024
5.0
1reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Texas Teaching Certificate in Mathematics
Master's Degree in Mathematics from University of Houston
Since learning about them in high school, logarithms have been one of my favorite topics in math. As a student, I actively sought out opportunities to take courses that involved logarithms, and, as a teacher, the unit on logarithms is always one of my favorites. In addition to my love of the subject, I have the following qualifications:
-B.A. in Mathematics from Rice University
-M.A in Mathematics from University of Houston
-Texas Teaching Certificate
-almost 15 years teaching and tutoring courses that teach and/or use logarithmsReviews
Live Group Course
$40
weekly or $120 for 6 classes2x per week, 3 weeks
55 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 13-17
4-12 learners per class
