Likes:

1. Teaches students to solve problems with multiple variables: Algebra II helps students understand how changing one variable can affect other variables.
   
2. Necessary for STEM careers: Most colleges and universities still require Algebra II for admission; it is particularly important background material for those considering studying science, technology or engineering in college. Research shows that students who successfully complete Algebra II are more likely to graduate from college.
   
3. Important skill for trade and technical careers: Algebra II skills help with data interpretation, proportions, measurements and equations, important skills for most trade and technical skills.
   
4. Helps develop critical thinking skills: Algebra II developsabstract thinking and reasoning skills, which help students weigh options and make wise decisions.
   
5. Keeps doors open to future opportunities: "Yes, Algebra II is hard," Ketterlin-Geller says. "Students may struggle. But don't give up without even starting. Don't close doors in your student's junior year of high school. It's hard to get that opportunity back."

Dislikes:

1. Difficult: Overall, it's safe to say that the course will provide a decent challenge, as it builds on concepts you've learned in Algebra 1 and introduces new topics such as logarithms, trigonometry, and conic sections. It's not only learning new things, but combining old things together in ways that students may have never experienced. One thing I discovered with students who struggle with Algebra II is that there is something from past math courses that they never quite got, especially working with decimals and fractions.