Algebra 2
2012 – 2013
Foothill Technology High School
Overview
Algebra 2 is a course that builds on the concepts learned in algebra. Algebra is
the language through which most of mathematics is communicated. It also
provides a means of operating with concepts at an abstract level and then
applying them, a process that often fosters generalizations and insights beyond
the original context. Aspects of this standard represent extensions of algebraic
concepts developed first in grades 5-8. Whereas this earlier work was developed
as a generalization of arithmetic, algebra in grades 9-12 will focus on its own
logical framework and consistency. As a result, for example, algebraic symbols
may represent objects rather than numbers, as in "p + q" representing the sum of
two polynomials. This more sophisticated understanding of algebraic
representation is a prerequisite to further formal work in virtually all
mathematical subjects, including statistics, linear algebra, discrete mathematics,
and calculus. Moreover, the increasing use of quantitative methods, both in the
natural sciences and in such disciplines as economics, psychology, and
sociology, have made algebraic processing an important tool for applying
mathematics.
Goals
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Students will read mathematics problems actively and critically.
Students will write effective solutions to problems and projects.
Students will present solutions to problems with reality and facts in
mind.
Students will use a variety of appropriate resources to solve
mathematical problems.
Students will employ multiple critical and creative thinking strategies in
reasoning and problem solving.
Students will demonstrate a knowledge and appreciation for how
mathematics can be used outside the mathematics classroom.
Students will represent situations that involve variable quantities with
expressions, equations, and inequalities.
Students will use tables, graphs, and functions as tools to interpret
expressions, equations, and inequalities.
Students will operate on expressions and solve equations and
inequalities.
Students will gain an appreciation for the power of mathematical
abstraction and symbolism.
Foothill Technology High School
Instructor: Jennifer Eggertsen
EMail:jennifer.eggertsen@venturausd.org
Phone: (805) 289-0023 ext.2407
Room: G-107
Tutoring: FIRE & Lunch
Materials
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8.5”x11” lined papers
Graph papers
Pencils (preferably with eraser)
Erasers
Pencil sharpener
Notebook
Colored pencils
Ballpoint pen (red or blue)
Three-ring binder
Highlighters
Evaluation
The following is a breakdown of the
weight of each evaluation criterion
used to calculate your final grade:
 Exams: 50%
 Quizzes: 20%
 Homework/Participation: 15%
 Semester Final Exam: 15%
Important Note:
Homework, classwork, quizzes and
tests must be done in PENCIL ONLY.
No Exceptions. Any work submitted
that was written in pen will receive a
ZERO score.
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Requirements
Before studying algebra 2, all students should complete a full year course in algebra that covers all standards as determined by
the state of California. These standards include understanding function notation, domain and range, solving and graphing
linear and quadratic equations, solving inequalities, simplifying expressions, factoring polynomials, determining validity, and
solving word problems. In particular, before studying algebra 2, students must be familiar with the properties of functions, the
algebra of functions, and the graphs of functions. Students must also understand the language of functions (domain and
range, zeros, intercepts, and so on). In addition, students must understand concepts from previous mathematics courses such
as number sense, manipulating fractions, and using basic geometry formulas.
Classroom Conduct Guidelines
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RESPONSIVENESS
Be an active participant in lessons whether learning as a whole class or with peers. Raise your hand to address the
class and be patient while others are having their questions answered.
RESPONSIBILITY
Have all necessary materials and homework completed before coming to school that day. Take notes, participate in
class discussions, and complete all math assignments. If you are absent, check for work assigned.
RESPECT
Arrive to class on time and start any task when prompted. Treat classmates, teacher, and yourself well. Allow for
others to feel comfortable to ask questions regardless of your personal level of understanding.
RESTRAINT
Recognize the right of others to learn. No cellphones and electronic equipment. Be an active listener that does not
allow distractions to disrupt your learning or the learning of others.
REGARD
Maintain a safe environment for learning and respect No throwing of objects in class. No gum, food or drinks in the
classroom (bottled water acceptable).
NO TALKING, TAUNTING, TEXTING, TARDINESS, TRASHING
Homework
Homework assignments will be given from online on a daily basis from each section, but a hard copy will be given during
class. Homework will be checked and stamped the day it is due. Each homework assignment will be worth ten (10) points. See
board for points system. No work means no credit even if you can do it in your head. By showing work, I will know that you
did the problems yourself. No Late assignments will be accepted. If a student has an excused absence, assignment must be
turned in within the number of days the student is absent.
Exams
Each exam will be comprehensive up to the material learned in each chapter. No calculators are allowed on any of the exams
unless stated beforehand by the instructor. If a student has an excused absence the day of an exam, it is up to the student to
schedule a make-up date outside of usual classroom time. Due to the nature of the California Standardized Test (CST),
calculators may not be used on assessments unless an exception has been made in advance. It is up to the discretion of the
instructor as to whether notes and/or books can be used on any exam.
Final Exam
The semester one final exam will only include semester one materials. Both the semester one and semester two exam will be
multiple-choice. The semester one final is administered only on the final exam day unless special accommodations have been
made at least two weeks in advance. Both final exams were written with collaboration between mathematics teachers within
the district and the mathematics specialist at the district office. Therefore, copies of the final exam will not be released or
returned once the test is administered.
The final exam for second semester is only comprehensive of semester two content, and is handled differently. Due to the fact
that seniors must check out a week prior to semester two final week, graduating seniors will be administered the final the
block day prior to the scheduled final exam day. All other students will take the final on the scheduled date.
Foothill Technology High School
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