Integrated Algebra Course Description
(from NY State Education Department)
The three high school mathematics courses (Integrated Algebra,
Geometry, Algebra & Trigonometry) are built around five process
strands: Problem Solving, Reasoning and Proof, Communication,
Connections, and Representation as well as five content strands:
Number Sense and Operations, Algebra, Geometry, Measurement, and
Statistics and Probability. Within these courses, students
will be expected to make connections between the verbal, numerical,
algebraic, and geometric representations of problem situations.
These courses will require students to apply and adapt a selection
of strategies and algorithms to solve a variety of problems.
It is expected that these strategies and algorithms will be
implemented using both traditional and technological tools.
Integrated Algebra
is the first mathematics course in the high school.
The integrated algebra course set forth here is not the algebra of
30 years ago. The focal point of this course is the algebra
content strand. Algebra provides tools and ways of thinking
that are necessary for solving problems in a wide variety of
disciplines, such as science, business, social sciences, fine arts,
and technology. This course will assist students in developing
skills and processes to be applied using a variety of techniques to
successfully solve problems in a variety of settings.
Problem situations may result in all types of linear equations in
one variable, quadratic functions with integral coefficients and
roots as well as absolute value and exponential functions.
Coordinate geometry will be integrated into the investigation of
these functions allowing students to make connections between their
analytical and geometrical representations. Problem situations
resulting in systems of equations will also be presented.
Alternative solution methods should be given equal value within the
strategies used for problem solving. For example, a matrix
solution to a system of equations is just as valid as a graphical
solution or an algebraic algorithm such as elimination.
Measurement within a problem-solving context will include
calculating rates using appropriate units and converting within
measurement systems. Data analysis including measures of
central tendency and visual representations of data will be studied.
An understanding of correlation and causation will be developed and
reasonable lines of best fit will be used to make predictions.
Students will solve problem situations requiring right triangle
trigonometry. Elementary probability theory will be used to
determine the probability of events including independent, dependent
and mutually exclusive events.
Students will sit for a NYS Regents Examination at
the end of this course.
