Topics of Algebra
Explore resources and recommendations to ensure student mastery of algebra. 
- View a visual diagram of both practices
- Watch a topic overview and download planning templates
- Listen to an expert
Explore the subtopics below to learn more about the recommended practices:
To learn more about these practices and the other findings of the Panel, view Foundations for Success: Report of the National Mathematics Advisory Panel.
Problem Solving in Algebra
Topics of Algebra > Topics of Algebra > See How It Works
Teacher John Lawless models problem-solving steps that challenge students to create polynomial expressions. Download Assignment: Problem Solving to see the full lesson that involves writing an...
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School Example
Teaching Symbols and Expressions
Topics of Algebra > Topics of Algebra > See How It Works
An algebra teacher scaffolds students' learning how to simplify expressions and solve equations. Assignment: Simplifying Expressions includes the lesson plan, problem worksheet, and homework used...
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School Example
Teaching Quadratic Functions
Topics of Algebra > Topics of Algebra > See How It Works
An algebra teacher demonstrates graphing quadratic functions, identifying the vertex of a parabola, finding maximum and minimum values, and using a graphing calculator. See Properties of Parabolas...
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School Example
Finding Patterns Within Functions
Topics of Algebra > Topics of Algebra > See How It Works
A master teacher shows how to practice describing basic functions graphs and changing functions with varying signs, coefficients, and constants. The exercises are in Lesson Objectives and Handouts:...
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School Example
District Perspective on Algebra
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The district mathematics coordinator describes the process of establishing essential algebra standards and aligning expectations with end-of-course and interim assessments. See Mathematics...
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School Example
Helping Struggling Learners in Algebra
Topics of Algebra > Multiple Paths > See How It Works
Hear ideas for overcoming students' lack of preparation for algebra. Included are tips for group work, developing algebraic communications, diagnosing misconceptions, contextualizing problems, and...
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School Example
Helping All Students Learn Algebra
Topics of Algebra > Multiple Paths > See How It Works
Teacher Paul Jorgens discusses the arithmetic skills that students need for algebra. Download Linear Mingle and Linear Graph Back to Back, the materials he uses in the activities for function...
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School Example
Algebra Boot Camp
Topics of Algebra > Multiple Paths > See How It Works
The math department chair describes essential mathematics concepts that are the focus of the summer algebra boot camp. Algebra I teachers have identified the topics that are necessary for...
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School Example
Accelerated Algebra
Topics of Algebra > Multiple Paths > See How It Works
Longfellow’s Honors Algebra teacher describes how she builds in more challenging problems for accelerated students, including extending the core algebra curriculum with advanced work with equations...
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School Example
Professional Development in Secondary Mathematics
Topics of Algebra > Multiple Paths > See How It Works
Hear about professional learning communities, individualized performance plans, peer learning, common observation tools, linkages to the middle school, and the value of conducting observations...
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School Example
State Perspective on Algebra
Topics of Algebra > Multiple Paths > See How It Works
In response to the National Math Panel report, Connecticut is developing course and student expectations, a common algebra curriculum, certification for specialists, and state-provided professional...
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School Example
Properties of Parabolas
Topics of Algebra > Topics of Algebra > See How It Works
Download a copy of a lesson plan for teaching properties of parabolas, similar to the lesson taught by Wendy Loeb in the video Teaching Quadratic Functions. Related Media and Files: Teaching...
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Sample Material
