SAT Math Lesson Note
Topic: Advanced Math
Objective:
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Work with linear, quadratic, rational, and exponential equations.
- Manipulate expressions and solve equations involving variables on both sides.
- Analyze functions, interpret graphs, and use function notation.
- Solve systems of equations and inequalities, including non-linear systems.
- Understand and apply the concept of polynomial division and factoring.
Key Concepts & Skills
1. Linear and Quadratic Equations
- Linear equation: y = mx + b
- Quadratic equation: y = ax² + bx + c
- Solve quadratics using:
- Factoring
- Quadratic Formula: x = (-b ± √(b² - 4ac)) / 2a
- Completing the square
- Graphing
- The vertex of a quadratic: x = -b/2a
2. Systems of Equations and Inequalities
- Solve systems by:
- Substitution
- Elimination
- Graphing
- Linear and nonlinear systems may have one solution, no solution, or infinitely many
solutions.
3. Rational Expressions and Equations
- Simplify by factoring numerators and denominators.
- Multiply/divide: Multiply straight across.
- Add/subtract: Use common denominators.
- Restrictions: Denominators ≠ 0.
4. Polynomial Expressions
- Polynomial operations:
- Add/Subtract: Combine like terms.
- Multiply: Use distributive property or box method.
- Divide: Long division or synthetic division.
- Factoring methods:
- GCF
- Trinomials
- Difference of squares
- Zeros/roots: Set polynomial = 0 and solve.
5. Exponential Expressions and Equations
- Exponential form: y = a(b)^x
- Growth: b > 1
- Decay: 0 < b < 1
- Solve exponential equations by:
- Making bases the same
- Taking logarithms
6. Functions and Graphs
- Function notation: f(x)
- Evaluate functions at specific inputs.
- Domain: Allowed x-values
- Range: Resulting y-values
- Interpret features of graphs:
- Intercepts
- Intervals of increase/decrease
- Maximum/minimum points
SAT Strategy Tips
1. Look for opportunities to factor equations.
2. Always consider all solutions, especially in rational equations.
3. When stuck, test answer choices by plugging them into the equation.
4. Sketch graphs for visual understanding.
5. Label axes and points clearly when graphing.
Practice Questions
1. Solve: x² - 5x + 6 = 0
2. Solve the system: 2x + y = 5 and x - y = 1
3. Simplify: (x² - 9) / (x + 3)
4. Evaluate f(x) = 2x² - 3x + 1 at x = -2
5. Solve: 3^(x+1) = 81
Homework Assignment
Complete at least 10 SAT-style questions from the Advanced Math section. Focus on solving
quadratic and exponential equations, simplifying rational expressions, and analyzing
function graphs.