Finding the X-Intercepts

Lesson Plan for Algebra Concepts

Prepared by Ms. Lindstrom

OVERVIEW & PURPOSE

The purpose of this lesson is to continue working on solving for the x-intercepts in a quadratic function.
This is a key concept in math. X-intercepts are also known as the zeros of a function or solving the
equation and are used throughout math/science courses. We have already practiced this concept for linear
functions and quadratics. This is the second day for quadratic functions.

Key Vocabulary: Quadratic, function, standard form, vertex form, parabola, axis of symmetry, vertex, x-
intercept, convert, order of operations, solve.

EDUCATION STANDARDS

CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSA.REI.B.4
Solve quadratic equations in one variable.

OBJECTIVES (learning targets)

1. Convert standard form to vertex form.
1. Understand order of operations.
2. Understand factoring.
2. Set and equation equal to zero to solve.
3. Find the x-intercepts

MATERIALS NEEDED
1. Notebook
2. Calculator (not required).
3. Work sheet

VERIFICATION
Steps to check for student understanding

1. At the beginning of class, students will complete a warm up. During this time I will be walking
around the room looking at students work to check for their prior understanding on algebraic
 knowledge, and solving for x. This will help remind students on the proper steps before
continuing onto the worksheet.
2. During the work time, students will have an opportunity to work through a few problems on their
own or with partners. Students will be expected to check their work with me and have the correct
work to get credit for the assignment. Any misconceptions will be addressed during this time and
student will correct any mistakes.

ACTIVITY
Describe activity that will reinforce the lesson

Warm up:
Students will start class by completing familiar problems in their notebook. They will complete
this individually and will have the opportunity to ask questions before we discuss the warm up as a class.
(10-15 minutes)

Practice:
Students will be given time during class to practice the material on their own, or with a
group/partner. This is a leveled assignment that has multiple parts. Each part will get progressively more
complex and ask students to dive deeper into the concept.
First, they will be solving for x with one or two step problems. After that they will be finding the
x-intercepts of equations in vertex form. This will require them to set the equation equal to zero first then
perform slightly more complicated algebraic steps. Finally, they will be given standard form and will
need to convert to vertex form based on prior knowledge and then will solve for the x-intercepts like in
the previous steps.

Review Game:
At the end of class (20-30 minutes left), we will play a review game if enough students are done
with the worksheet. This will be conducted in groups with whiteboards and markers. We have played this
game before as a class. As dice are involved to choose the student that will present their answer. Everyone
in the group is accountable for their own work.

DIFFERENTIATION
Students will be provided a leveled warm up and practice assignment. Students will have an opportunity
to practice the in a differentiated manner. Each level will add a new challenge. This is designed to be
more independent though students can still ask questions as they are working through each conversion.
Students will be given the opportunity to organically discuss math and help each other through problems
as they work through the worksheet.