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Oh, For the Love of Logarithms!

Class
Erin Townley
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:
(1)
New on Outschool
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.

Class Experience

US Grade 9 - 11
Intermediate Level
6 lessons//3 Weeks
 Week 1
Lesson 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
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.
 Week 2
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.
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.
 Week 3
Lesson 5
Solving Exponential Equations
In this lesson, we will explore how to solve a variety of exponential equations, using rules of exponents and logarithms. We will also discuss how to know when the use of logarithms is required.
Lesson 6
Solving Logarithmic Equations + Some Challenge Questions
In this lesson, we will look at how the properties of logarithms can be used to solve logarithmic equations and check for extraneous solutions. We will also look at some more advanced techniques that can be used to solve a variety of more challenging problems involving logarithms.
  • 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.
  • Students will solidify their understanding of logarithms and their properties by solving a variety of equations and problems that relate to logarithms.
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 logarithms
1 - 2 hours per week outside of class
Homework
Frequency: included
Feedback: included
Details: 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
Frequency: 1 after class completion
Details:
Students should have completed a full Algebra 1 course and be familiar with the properties of exponents prior to taking this class.
Paper
Pen or Pencil
Graphing Calculator (Numworks is what I will be demonstrating with, but that calculator is not required for students)
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined June, 2024
5.0
1reviews
New on Outschool
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
Texas Teaching Certificate in Mathematics
Master's Degree in Mathematics from University of Houston
Hi, I’m Erin! I graduated magna cum laude from Rice University in 2008 with a B.A. in both Mathematics and Psychology, as well as obtaining a teaching certificate for grades 7-12. I then went on to get a M.A. in Mathematics from the University of... 

Reviews

Group Class

$40

weekly or $120 for 6 classes
2x per week, 3 weeks
55 min

Live video meetings
Ages: 13-17
4-12 learners per class

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