Algebra 2
Exam on Wednesday, May 28:
- Solve quadratic equation by factorization
- Solve quadratic equation by completing the square
- Factor an expression by completing the square
This is a test of
skills that are basic for mathematics at subsequent levels. The exam will not require deep mathematical knowledge or subtle reasoning. It is strictly a test of your proficiency at applying routine techniques to routine problems. The exam will have a
strict time limit such that you will have to be proficient at using the techniques taught or else you will not finish.
Exam on Tuesday, June 3:
- Solve quadratic equation by factorization
- Solve quadratic equation by completing the square
- Solve quadratic equation by using the quadratic formula
- Factor an expression by completing the square
- Derive the quadratic formula
You will use the skills you have acquired. You will also have the chance to demonstrate your
understanding of the ideas that underlie those skills. You will be asked to apply ideas and techniques to problems that might appear unlike those you have worked on homework and in class. You may be asked to explain why a given technique is valid.
You will have plenty of time to do this exam.
How to prepare
- Learning mathematics nearly always involves working on paper. If you believe that exam preparation consists of reading the book and your notes without working along with them or consists of looking at problems thinking to yourself "Yup, I can do that one", then you are mistaken.
- Working and reworking the assigned problems and the examples from handouts and notes is excellent preparation, providing you (1) ask yourself how the problems and examples use and illustrate the ideas presented and explored in the handouts and class, and (2) check your answers against those provided. Typically, students get more out of reworking problems than working fresh problems.
- If you have kept up with assignments and class, you have already done most of the preparation. If you have not kept up, extra time and effort over as many days as possible will help you much more than trying to "cram" a day or two before the exam. You will not learn mathematics by cramming and your grade will show that.
- Remember that in mathematics just as in sports and music, you play like you practice.
Resources you should have
In addition to all of the problem sets, you should have