Unit 6 – Polynomials and Rational Functions

The complexity and algebra of polynomials is examined in the first two lessons of this unit.  Particular care is given to linking the factors of a polynomial to its x-intercepts.  Rational functions and inverse variation are briefly covered and give way to the traditional rational algebra that is so essential to master before moving to precalculus.  Besides reviewing knowledge and skills from Algebra 1, the newer concepts of complex fractions and fractional equations are introduced.