This assignment comes from The IRIS Center Case Study Unit

Algebra (Part 2)

Level B Case 2

Background

Student: Jeffery

Age: 13.9

Grade: 9th

Scenario

Jeffery has been doing very well in algebra. He understands the basic concepts of algebra and enjoys solving the

problems. However, Jeffery is having difficulty with the concepts requiring higher-level reasoning skills. His specific

areas of difficulty are multiplying polynomials and factoring. Jeffery has a positive attitude and is motivated to learn

strategies that will assist him in passing his algebra course. His teacher has identified the following goals for Jeffery:

Given polynomial problems (e.g., (x + 5) (x - 3); (4x + 6) + (5x - 8), Jeffery will distribute and put into

simplest form.

Given equations (e.g., 9x2 + 12; x2 + 6x + 10), Jeffery will factor.

Possible Strategies

Teaching Vocabulary

Concrete-Representational-Abstract Method

Mnemonic Devices

! Assignment

1. Read the STAR Sheets for the three strategies listed above.

2. Explain how and why each strategy could assist Jeffery in reaching his goals.

3. Explain how you would involve Jeffery's parents, and develop an activity from one of the strategies that

Jeffery's parents could use at home.