Parents – CPM Algebra 2

CPM Algebra 2

Overview

Algebra 2 begins by investigating transformations of functions (shifting and changing their graphs) and studying the effects on the equations. Students add non-functions and piecewise functions to the families of functions they studied in Algebra 1 (linear, exponential & quadratic). Students build on their previous solving equations skills by solving rational equations, systems of equations and “undoing” equations by finding the inverse. Their study of inverses and transformations from earlier in the year are extended as students explore logarithms and trigonometric functions. Algebra 1 concepts of factoring are taken deeper as students learn about factoring polynomials and Algebra 1 concepts of series is extended as students study summation notation and other series concepts. Students end the year with statistics, examining randomization, normal distributions and simulating sample variability.

Homework Help – click here

Homework help offers tips, strategies and sometimes solutions for every homework question in this chapter.

Parent resources for each chapter of Algebra 2

The links below provide a description of the math content by chapter of College Preparatory Math plus additional resources specific to the math of each chapter.

General Parent Tips for Supporting Students in High School Mathematics

• Talk about career choices, and investigate together what math is required for college or associates degree, a technical certificate, or possible on-the-job needs. Plenty of jobs use math, especially things like proportional reasoning and linear functions, jobs ranging from nursing to forestry to operations to accounting to computer-aided design to carpentry.

• Make sure your kids understand fractions and middle school math—especially proportional reasoning—super well. Work on real-world problems, in daily life etc. to reinforce these skills. Or for example, you can discuss financing their college, or have them imagine what their budget will be when they are 25 years old and discuss financing a car. Too often, arithmetic skills have been lost (because they were based on memorization and haven’t been reinforced) by the time kids get to college.

• Consider using resources such as Mathalicious or Dan Meyer 3-Act Tasks if you want enrichment or extra practice. Kahn Academy is working on Common Core skill practice as well.

• Enjoy math! It feels good to put some effort forward and figure something out. Work on your own to model this. See Carol Dweck’s work on mindset to understand how important attitudes towards effort and learning are.