Chapter 7: Quadratic Equations

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This is the seventh program in the Algebra By Chapter Series. Begin the study of quadratic equations by learning the ever-important method of "completing the square"... followed by Algebra's most eloquent formula, the Quadratic Formula -- practice, practice, practice the important use of this formula! Learn about the Discriminant and what it reveals about the nature of the solutions (are they real, non-real, rational, or irrational?). Use various methods for solving quadratic equations from simple to complex. Learn to graph and analyze quadratics -- learn what to look for – learn the key elements of an accurate graph -- the vertex, the axis of symmetry, the x-intercept(s), the y-intercept(s). Given the roots of a quadratic equation, apply the sum and product rules for finding the specific quadratic equation. Conclude with word problems which require solving quadratic equations, factoring quadratic equations, and using the quadratic formula. All topics are introduced with theory and sample problems. The student will interact with practice problems, taking hints, entering answers, asking for additional algebra help. The program concludes with a practice test which provides hints and step-by-step solutions. A final test is used for scoring and recording the students' progress. (Functionality includes automatic scoring and recording of assessments as well as "bookmarking" for the student to return to the last screen they worked on in their previous session.)