M203

Polynomial and Rational Expressions, Functions, and Equations

About This Badge

How do aerospace engineers figure out how quickly a rocket is gaining speed? How do astronomers measure the distance between a new star and Earth? The math they use goes beyond simple numbers; it involves expressions called polynomials and rational functions. These are powerful tools that help us model and solve real problems in science, weather, economics, and more. In M203 Polynomial and Rational Expressions, Functions, and Equations, you’ll learn how to work with algebraic expressions by adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing them. You’ll explore how to factor expressions, find patterns, and understand how different parts of a function affect its graph. You’ll also learn how to solve equations and figure out how the parts of an equation tell you key features of its graph. You’ll use technology to help you visualize what’s going on and explore how the math works. Polynomials and rational expressions, functions, and equations are useful in careers like aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, and astronomy.

Suggested prerequisites for this badge: M103 Modeling with Functions of Quadratic Type; M104 Modeling with Functions of Exponential Type.

This badge is suggested as a prerequisite for: Precalculus and Calculus.

Learning Activities and Alignment Guidance

These resources provide learning activities that can supplement traditional coursework as well as guidance for aligning coursework to this badge.

Standards M203 2024

Points of Emphasis in M203

Introduction to Alignment Guidance Final

M203 Alignment Guidance x

Learning Principles 2024

Annotated Examples M203 2024

Student-facing Assignment Templates M203

Assessment: Pre-/Post-Task

These tasks should be administered to students before launching instruction on a new badge and again once badge instruction is coming to a close. These tasks are designed to support students' understanding of what they have learned from the beginning to the end of each badge and to support teachers in making relevant, timely decisions about how they support student learning.

M203 Pre Post Scoring Guide

M203 Student Facing Post Task

M203 Student Facing Pre Task

M203 Task Analysis Class Summary

Assessment: Performance Tasks

There are two available performance tasks for this badge. Each task has a teacher guide, scoring guidance, and student versions (docx format) in English and Spanish. Where available, samples of student work are also provided.

Evidence of Learning 2024

Assessment: Portfolio Resources

IM Portfolio M203

Assessment: Professional Development Resources

M203 Baseline PL

Baseline PL Handout M203

Baseline PL Handout M203

M203 Baseline PL

Content and Practice Expectations

These resources explain the core content and practice expectations for this badge as well as how this badge aligns to content standards.