Quadratic Equations, Day 2 of 2

The content of this lesson is first seen in Common Core Algebra 1 and Geometry, but as we transition to the Common Core I found it was necessary to revisit it in my Algebra 2 course to ensure a foundation for our work with complex numbers.

I'll begin class again by laying out the objectives for this lesson, or series of lessons(see How long does it take?).  First, our aim is to find strategies for efficiently making a graph without technology.  Second, we aim to solve quadratic equations under any given circumstances.  Third, we will learn to transform quadratic equations into two useful forms, factored form and vertex form.

Next, we'll quickly check our progress by correcting the factoring homework from the previous lesson.  I like to do this by calling on the students one at a time to read their solutions and then asking the class if they agree or disagree with each one.  If necessary, I'll point out the usefulness of looking for common factors or of factoring out a -1.  When we're finished, I'd like to collect and grade these, but I'll allow any student to hang onto it in order to make corrections as long as it's turned in by the end of the day.

Now is the time to assign the next set of factoring practice problems, too.  They'll be due at the beginning of the next lesson.

A graph helps us by allowing us to see aspects of the relationship between x and y that aren't immediately obvious from an equation.  I will begin this section with a mini-lecture on graphing.  The things that students must notice about the graphs of quadratic equations are:

1. The graph is always a specific geometric shape: a parabola.
2. The graph always has either a maximum or minimum point (vertex).
3. The graph will always be symmetrical around a vertical axis running through the vertex.

Symmetry is very important because it allows us to make predictions about the overall shape of the graph based on only a few points.  I teach my students to use the following steps for making a graph efficiently:

1. Identify the y-intercept. (Use standard form, or "plug in" zero.)
2. Identify the vertex. (Use vertex form, or use x = -b/2a.)
3. Identify the roots. (Use factored form, or use the Quadratic Formula.)
4. Use symmetry to obtain one or two more point-pairs.

Really, steps 2 & 3 should sometimes be interchanged.  If the equation is easily factored, then factor it first, find the roots, and locate the vertex in between them!  In my opinion, this is an example of math practice 5 because students are being asked to use the tools at their disposal to efficiently solve the problem (MP 5).  Of course, our students will often be able to rely on technology to produce graphs for them, but these skills are important for those times when it is unavailable, as well as to help them understand what they should expect from the technology.

Now, practice, practice, practice!

Okay, so the quiz won't take only 5 minutes.  In fact, I gave my students no more than 20 minutes to complete it in class (most were finished well before time was up).

Before moving on to imaginary numbers and complex solutions to quadratic equations, it's important to take some time for assessment.  The quiz I use tests students on the three main goals I set out at the beginning of this series of lessons.  Students are asked to convert an equation into vertex and factored form, to solve the equation for a given y-value (using any method they prefer), and then produce an accurate graph without technology.  I've included my answer key and rubric for reference.

One tip: I've found it very helpful to give my students a practice quiz or two in the days leading up to this one.  You simply have to change the equation, but otherwise it would be exactly the same.  Since this is simply a skills test, it's helpful for students to have a chance to come to terms with what I will be expecting of them, as well as the amount of time they'll be expected to do it in.