Algebra 2                          

32 WEEK CLASS
*Requires Algebra 1

Utilizes Teaching Textbooks

Tutor Name: Matthew Bullington

Course Name: Algebra 2

Required Text: 

• Teaching Textbooks Algebra 2, Version 2.0 OR 3.0
  Student textbook with answer key.
  Cost: $59.95 range
  ISBN: 9780983581253

Optional Materials:  

Full kit, including DVDs with self-grading program and completely worked out problems. Cost $185 range (includes CDs, student textbook and answer key). ASIN: B00993RLRY

The set allows for more in-depth explanations of mathematical concepts when not in class.  If your student is good at understanding math and good at self-teaching, then this CD would not be as necessary.

OR

Student can purchase version 4.0 from www.teachingtextbooks.com, which gives access to the full book as an e-book and all material on the CDs as a subscription for 1 student for 10 months (can be paused for 6 months). Cost is $59.90.

Note About Curriculum: Choosing the right math curriculum is extremely challenging, and varies drastically based on the individual student. For a comprehensive discussion of math curriculum I recommend www.homeschoolmath.net. I have found TT to be good blend between mastery and spiral approaches with engaging discussions that help students see the applications of math. That being said, I will also be heavily supplementing with online resources and print worksheets to emphasize key topics, which will also allow for the course to be varied based on student’s individual abilities.

Other books/materials, etc. required for class:  Graphing calculator (TI-83/84, any version, can purchase used inexpensively)

Copy Fee: $20

Other Fees: $20 video fee (this covers the cost for me to provide videos I create as well as outside videos to support and expand upon concepts covered)

Minimum Number of Students: 8

Maximum Number of Students: 20

Course Description/Outline/Objectives: 

Math does not exist in a vault. It is every bit as integrated in daily life as history or literature, and my goal for the year is to help the students see that! In addition to detailed coverage of the math concepts will be regular integration in how math is regularly used in everyday life, and discussions of the historical and cultural development of math (remember math was discovered to allow civilization to overcome problems).

All of my math classes are custom developed, using a foundation of Teaching Textbooks 2.0 (the books only, CDs not needed) so students can see the progressive flow of math. Note that the 2.0 version is more rigorous than the 1.0 version. I then build on that foundation with weekly worksheets, videos and assignments that allows me to develop the class to the needs of the individual students, keep the material academically rigorous while at the same time enjoyable and purposeful. Students will also keep a journal using the Feynman Technique.

This is a college preparatory course.  Towards this end, I will be supplementing the regular curriculum with practice questions from the ACT and SAT to ensure the students are familiar with all foundational algebra material they could expect to see on the tests.

My objective for the class would be to help foster an interest and enjoyment in math on the part of the students.  While unfortunately often times viewed as the most dull (and difficult) subject, the field of math is in itself an incredible testimony to the orderly nature of our God and a crucial part of the beauty He created for us to enjoy.

Expected Weekly Time Commitment for Homework:  5+ hours per week.

Prerequisites: None.

Recommended Grade Level(s) for this class: 9th – 11th

Estimated Difficulty Level of course for average student: Above average

Rate for Additional Private Tutoring: $50/hour