Winners' Circle: Algebra II in the Workplace

 

William Pearson, South Lyon Community Schools
with Jean Schmeichel

Algebra II in the Workplace is a preparatory course for entrance into college or the workplace. Students develop the understanding that algebraic thinking can be a powerful tool for solving real-world problems in the workplace, the sciences, technology, and engineering. By embedding Algebra II concepts into real-world situations, the content becomes more relevant and accessible to students. This course builds upon concepts taught in Algebra I and Geometry, while adding new concepts and relating them to workplace applications. When applying Algebra II concepts to real-world problems such as scheduling and networks, students experience both the complexity of such problems and construct deep mathematical connections. Students gain experience with the types of Algebra II concepts companies such as UPS, FedEx, Delta Airlines, hospitals, and others use to solve workplace problems. Algebra II in the Workplace has an optional lab component to provide students with additional support as needed. Approximately 20% of the population of the Algebra II in the Workplace course is served by the additional lab course each year.

One hundred forty-two students were enrolled in Algebra II in the Workplace during the 2008-2009 school year. Approximately two thirds of the students enrolled in the course received a B- or better during the second semester of the school year. 97.9% of the students enrolled in the course passed with a D+ or better. All of the students enrolled in both the course and the supporting lab earned a C or better.

 

For more information regarding this program, please contact Doug Curry at (248) 573-8105 or curryd@slcs.us.