Jump Start to Algebra 2 prepares students for success in Algebra 2 by building a solid foundation in functions, linear equations, and sequences. Through engaging examples and practice problems, students will gain confidence in their ability to solve algebraic problems and apply these skills to real-world scenarios. By the end of this course, students will be well-equipped to tackle the challenges of Algebra 2.

Functions & Their Properties

• Define and identify functions using various representations — equations, graphs, and tables.
• Determine the domain and range of functions.
• Evaluate functions for given input values.
• Interpret function graphs to find values.
• Complete tables for functions and graphs.

Average Rate of Change

• Calculate the average rate of change between two points.
• Interpret the average rate of change in real-world contexts — speed (miles per hour), earnings (dollars per hour), temperature change, etc.
• Differentiate between scenarios that represent a rate versus those that do not.

Linear Equations

• Solve linear equations.
• Apply linear equations to solve word problems.
• Rearrange multi-variable equations to isolate specific variables.

Arithmetic Sequences

• Define arithmetic sequences and identify their common difference.
• Determine terms of an arithmetic sequence using explicit and recursive formulas.
• Apply arithmetic sequences to model real-world scenarios involving linear growth or decay.

Geometric Sequences

• Define geometric sequences and identify their common ratio.
• Determine terms of a geometric sequence using explicit and recursive formulas.
• Apply geometric sequences to model real-world scenarios involving exponential growth or decay.

Comparing Sequences

• Distinguish between arithmetic and geometric sequences based on their patterns and formulas.
• Identify the key differences and similarities between arithmetic and geometric sequences.
• Determine when to use arithmetic vs. geometric sequences to model different situations.

Finding Missing Terms

• Calculate missing terms in arithmetic sequences.
• Calculate missing terms in geometric sequences.
• Use patterns and formulas to predict future terms in sequences.

Evaluating Formulas

• Evaluate explicit formulas for arithmetic and geometric sequences — directly calculate any term in the sequence.
• Evaluate recursive formulas for arithmetic and geometric sequences — calculate terms based on previous terms.
• Understand the advantages and disadvantages of using explicit vs. recursive formulas.