Algebra II

Instructor Information

Course Overview

Algebra II extends the function families scholars met in Algebra I into a complete college-readiness toolkit. We study absolute value, quadratic, cubic, polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, and logarithmic functions — analyzing each one symbolically, graphically, numerically, and verbally.

Throughout the year we model real situations with the appropriate function, transform parent graphs with intention (for example \(f(x)=a|x-h|+k\)), and solve and verify equations across every family. Texas does not administer a STAAR End-of-Course exam for Algebra II; mastery is measured locally through teacher-built unit tests and benchmarks aligned to the TEKS. The course builds direct readiness for precalculus and college mathematics.

The seven mathematical process standards (TEKS 2A.1A–2A.1G) are embedded in every module: applying mathematics to problems, using a problem-solving model, selecting tools and techniques, communicating reasoning, creating representations, analyzing relationships, and justifying conclusions.

The Studio — Our Learning Environment

This classroom runs like an architect's studio. A scholar moves through three zones in a typical lesson, and each zone has its own expectations.

Required Materials

• Graphing calculator (TI-84 or equivalent) or a school Chromebook running Desmos
• Interactive notebook dedicated to this class (composition or spiral)
• Pencils — all math work is drafted in pencil
• Graph paper for hand-built coordinate work

Scholars without a personal device will always have access to a school Chromebook and Desmos during class. No purchase is required to succeed.

Grading Policy

Grades are weighted into two categories:

Grading scale:

Course Itinerary by Grading Period

The five modules are sequenced across four grading periods on the Beta four-day instructional calendar (~144 days). The full day-by-day map lives on the pacing guide.

The Scholar's Code

Three expectations govern everything we do in the studio:

Student Leadership Roles

Each Build Team rotates through leadership roles so every scholar practices ownership:

Technology & Learning Platforms

We use a small, focused set of tools:

• Bluebonnet Learning — our core TEA mathematics curriculum and lessons.
• IXL — adaptive skill practice aligned to the TEKS.
• Khan Academy — video reteach and extra worked examples.
• Google Classroom — where assignments, resources, and announcements are posted.
• Desmos — our graphing workspace for transformations and modeling.

Parent Communication

ParentSquare is the primary channel for all family communication — announcements, reminders, and grade updates flow through it, and the syllabus acknowledgment is submitted there.

Beta Academy is a no-cell-phone campus. Phones stay put away during the entire class period; scholars use school Chromebooks for any digital work.

To make sure families and scholars actually read this syllabus, a short syllabus pop-quiz will be given in the first weeks and counts toward the grade.

Academic Integrity

Mathematics is built on honest reasoning. Copying another scholar's work, sharing answers during assessments, or using an AI tool or solver to complete work that is meant to be your own all violate the Scholar's Code and Beta Academy's integrity policy.

On The Proving Ground (quizzes and tests), all work must be the scholar's own. Collaboration is welcomed in Build Teams — but the goal is shared understanding, never shared answers. Integrity violations are addressed per Beta Academy policy and communicated to families through ParentSquare.

Procedures & Norms

• Entering: Pick up materials, begin the warm-up at The Drafting Table without prompting.
• Transitions: Move between zones quickly and quietly when signaled.
• Asking for help: Try the problem first, ask a Build-Team teammate, then raise your hand.
• Devices: Chromebooks open only when directed; phones away all period.
• Dismissal: Return materials, leave the studio organized for the next class.

Attendance & Missed Work

Daily attendance matters — mathematics builds on itself, and a missed Drafting Table session is hard to reconstruct alone. When a scholar is absent:

• Check Google Classroom for the day's lesson, notes, and assignments.
• Scholars have the number of days absent to make up missed work for full credit.
• Missed quizzes and tests are made up during office hours by appointment.
• Reach out via ParentSquare if extended absence requires a catch-up plan.

Parent Involvement

Families are partners in every scholar's success. The most helpful things you can do:

• Keep ParentSquare notifications on so you see grade and progress updates.
• Ask your scholar to teach you one thing they built each week — explaining is the best practice.
• Make sure pencils, graph paper, and a charged Chromebook are ready each day.
• Email or message anytime — office hours are available by appointment.

Syllabus Acknowledgment