Algebra II
Core college-preparatory mathematics course emphasizing functions, equations, algebraic reasoning, and analytic geometry.
Quick Facts
| Credits | 10 (year-long) |
| UC A–G Area | C — Mathematics |
| Level & GPA Weight | Regular (unweighted per UCOP/district policy) |
| Recommended Grades | G8–G10 |
| Prerequisites | Pre-AP Geometry and Statistics, Geometry, or equivalent (grade B or better) |
| Textbook | Algebra and Trigonometry: Graphs and Models, 6th Edition, by Marvin Bittinger, Judith Beecher, David Ellenbogen, and Judith Penna. ISBN-13: 978-0134179049. |
| Required Materials | Scientific calculator, math notebook or binder, pencils, erasers, and ruler. |
Course Description
Algebra II extends the concepts developed in Algebra I and Geometry, and prepares students for higher-level work in Precalculus, AP Statistics, and beyond. Students deepen their understanding of functions and their representations, with emphasis on linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, polynomial, and rational functions. The course also introduces analytic geometry, systems of equations, sequences and series, and selected topics in probability and combinatorics.
What You’ll Learn
- Represent and analyze functions algebraically, graphically, numerically, and verbally.
- Solve and interpret linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic equations.
- Model real-world situations using functions and systems of equations.
- Work with conic sections and other analytic geometry topics.
- Apply recursive and explicit reasoning to sequences, series, and counting problems.
Course Outline
1. Graphs, Functions, and Models — function notation, graph interpretation, modeling.
2. Algebra of Functions and Transformations — composition, inverses, transformations.
3. Quadratic Functions, Equations, and Inequalities — graphing, solving, applications.
4. Polynomial and Rational Functions — zeros, asymptotes, behavior, applications.
5. Exponential Functions and Logarithms — growth/decay, inverse relationships, log properties.
6. Systems of Equations — linear and nonlinear systems, multiple methods.
7. Analytic Geometry — conic sections and coordinate-based applications.
8. Sequences, Series, and Combinatorics — patterns, counting, probability connections.
Practical Work
- Problem Sets — daily or session-based exercises requiring both full work and correct answers.
- Quizzes — typically 30–40 minutes and usually given at the start of class.
- Midterm & Final — one midterm and one final each semester.
Technology & Platforms
- Scientific calculator required for regular class use and assessments.
- Online submission and feedback platforms may be used depending on the delivery model.
Delivery Options & Tuition
| Model | What’s Included | Typical Live Hours | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Independent Asynchronous | Self-paced modules, graded work, email Q&A | — | $998 |
| Teacher-Guided Asynchronous | Instructor pacing, periodic check-ins, grading & feedback | Typically 8 hours | $1,870 |
| Mini-One-on-One | Targeted coaching, guided review, personalized pacing support | Typically 20 hours | $2,180 |
| One-on-One | Fully personalized instruction and flexible pacing | Typically 38–42 hours | $109/hour |
Time & Workload Expectations
- Initial readiness assessment: students complete a beginning-of-course assessment to help determine placement and support needs. It does not count toward the final grade.
- One-on-One: approximately 38–42 hours of live instruction, plus independent practice and review (40 hours)
- Mini-One-on-One: approximately 20 hours of live support, plus independent study between sessions (60-65 hours).
- Teacher-guided Asynchronous: approximately 8 hours of live support, plus independent study between sessions (7–75).
- Independent Asynchronous: students should expect curriculum learning (40 hours) regular problem sets, review, and assessment preparation throughout the course (40-50 hours).
- Weekly load scales with the selected course window. Example:
(live hours + independent hours) ÷ weeks ≈ weekly time
Grading & Course Policies
| Category | Weight |
|---|---|
| Classwork | 10% |
| Tests/Quizzes | 20% |
| Homework | 30% |
| Midterm | 20% |
| Final Test | 20% |
- Assignments: unless otherwise noted, assignments are due by the next session and should include both work and answers for full credit. One-session late submissions may receive reduced credit.
- Quizzes: usually begin at the start of class; tardiness reduces available quiz time.
- Partial credit: on quizzes and tests, intermediate work must be shown to receive full or partial credit, even when using a calculator.
Additional Notes
- Placement guidance: if the initial readiness assessment shows that additional support is needed, students may be assigned supplementary work or advised toward tutoring or a different class placement.
- Pacing Guide: course pacing may be personalized based on the selected start/end dates.
- Required habits: consistent note-taking, calculator fluency, and regular review are strongly encouraged.