ALGEBRA II SYLLABUS
Instructor: Adam Volkening, 815.899.8160, avolkeni@syc427.org
Wiki: volkeningmath.pbworks.com
Math Department Wiki: sycamoremath.pbworks.com
Available Tutoring times: Tuesday and Thursday after school in the Library. Sunday night in the Library. Thursday
mornings during PLC time in the Library. This tutoring is done by other teachers and NHS students. As for me, before
school I am available between 8:00 and 8:15. After school will be by appointment, except during basketball season. I am
also available 1st, 6th and some 7th hours.
ALGEBRA II COURSE DESCRIPTION
Algebra II is a continuation of the Algebra course and extends those topics to include additional theory relating to the real
number system. It formalizes the study of Algebra by expanding problem solving techniques. Topics include systems of
equations, inequalities, quadratic and polynomial functions, logarithms, and determinants. The course makes regular use
of the scientific calculator and graphing calculators to make technology an integral part of the problem solving process.
Algebra II will provide the prerequisite for Pre-Calculus with Trigonometry or Trigonometry/College Math. Algebra II is
a traditional college-prep course taken by students who are “at grade level.”
Prerequisite: A grade of "C-" or higher in Algebra and completion/enrollment in Geometry with a C- or higher or
permission. Level: 10, 11, 12
Semesters: 2 Credit: 1
Textbook: Algebra II, Glencoe: ISBN #0-07-865609-5
Required Graphing Calculator: TI-83 or higher
Math Department Critical Outcomes
Upon exiting high school students will be able to:
Solve equations and inequalities
Use logical reasoning
Interpret and model data
Know, use, and manipulate formulas
Use technology to solve problems
Demonstrate a number sense
Use mathematical operations at the appropriate level
Analyze attributes and explore relationships of multi-dimensional shapes
Understand, evaluate, interpret and apply functions
Know and use appropriate mathematics vocabulary
Focus Statement
Students will demonstrate more advanced algebraic skills to simplify, evaluate, solve, and graph algebraic expressions,
equations, and inequalities, as well as apply geometric topics to lay the foundation for development of pre-calculus and
calculus concepts.
Approximate Course Sequence and Grading
Chapter: 1,2,3,5
Semester 1 Exam (as dictated by current school policy) worth 20 percent of semester grade
Chapter: 6,8,7,13,10,9
Semester 2 Exam (as dictated by school policy) worth 20 percent of semester grade
Materials To Bring Every Day
Textbook, Pencil, Notebook, Graphing Calculator (highly recommended)
Technology Policy
Only calculators will be allowed during an assessment.
Rules and Expectations
Come every day prepared to learn. We will use all 50 minutes of every class period. Please ask questions when you have
them. Cell phones must be out of sight and turned off during class time.
Grading Policy
Grades consist of:
Tests (1 per chapter) – 55% of grade
Quizzes (1-2 per chapter) – 35% of grade
Homework (assigned daily) – 10% of grade
As you might expect, homework is the essential ingredient in a good math grade. Homework will be given everyday. I
have some rules about homework which I expect to be followed.
* Each homework assignment is worth 4 points - all work MUST be shown.
* In order to get the full 4 points, all problems must be attempted, not necessarily correct. (I can tell if you made an honest
effort or not)
* If most of the work is done, you get a 3, NOT a 4.
* If a few problems are attempted, you get a 2 or 1.
* Homework is due the day after it is assigned unless otherwise specified.
* Homework must be completed before coming to class, if I see you working on it while I'm checking, you get a zero.
* Homework will be accepted late up to 2 weeks for half credit if all problems are attempted.
Quizzes
* If you receive below 80% on any quiz, you may do a retake. You must sign up to talk to me about your quiz and also
schedule a day to retake it within a week of getting your quiz back.
Make-Up Work
If you miss a day of class, it is your responsibility to make sure the work is made up quickly. Class notes and assignments
will be posted on the class wiki.
Communication with Parents
The parent portal is a method of communication where parents and students can check the academic performance of the
student. If parents have any questions about student behavior, grades, etc. they can contact me through email and I will
get back to them when I have the available time.
Grading Scale
98-100
88-89
78-79
68-69
A+
B+
C+
D+
92-97
82-87
72-77
62-67
A
B
C
D
90-91
80-81
70-71
60-61
ABCD-
Below 60 F