How a Lesson Works in Algebra 2: Principles of Secondary Mathematics

Algebra 2: Principles of Secondary Mathematics (Algebra 2: PSM) utilizes a streamlined instructional flow designed to move students from initial discovery to complete mastery. Each of the lessons follows a consistent path, beginning with clear objectives and a “Why?” statement to establish relevance. Students engage with expert video instruction while actively recording notes on printable Lesson Pages, ensuring they are participants in their own learning rather than passive viewers. Throughout the process, built-in check-ins provide critical moments for student-instructor interaction, allowing you to gauge understanding before moving to more complex topics.

This format also provides guidance for the instructor. When signed in to an Instructor Account, the online lessons offer specific direction, pedagogical advice, and options for progression. These resources help you determine when a student is ready to move forward or when they might benefit from additional practice, ensuring that the guidance for the learning process is shared between the instructor and the student.

The Instructional Sequence

As shown in the infographic below, a typical lesson follows this standardized path:

• Preparation: Navigate to the Online Lesson and print the necessary Lesson Pages for the day.
• Engagement: Review the Lesson Objectives and the “Why?” statement before completing a Warm Up to activate prior knowledge.
• Explore Phase: Watch instructional videos, fill in the Lesson Pages, and complete Checkpoints for immediate feedback.
• Practice & Mastery: Complete Practice 1 problems to reinforce concepts. Following a check-in with the instructor, students may proceed to optional Practice 2 or “More to Explore” activities before completing the final Mastery Check.
• Final Step: Odd-numbered lessons feature a Targeted Review to prepare students for Unit Tests, the Midterm, and Final. Even-numbered lessons end with a Lesson Test to assess mastery of the two most recent lessons.