| Catalog Data |
The course gives the student fundamental quantitative and algebraic skills needed in other mathematics and science courses. Topics include: real numbers, linear equations, graphing, linear systems, exponents, factoring, rational expressions, rational exponents and quadratic equations. Prerequisite: one year of high school algebra.
|
| Textbooks |
Interactive Mathematics Personal Academic Notebooks published by Academic Systems
|
| Prerequisites |
You should have some skills in high school algebra.
|
| Goals |
The goals of the course are to
-
build your confidence in your mathematical ability,
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prepare you for other math and science courses and
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empower you to solve applied problems with the techniques of basic college algebra.
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| Overview |
To achieve these goals, the course uses an interactive approach in which you learn by doing experiments and exercises. Learning mathematics requires doing mathematics. The course uses a computer, the Internet and a set of course CDs. The CDs contain interactive multimedia lessons about selected topics in algebra. The computer acts as your guide and serves as your textbook for these topics. You must take an active role in your own instruction to be successful in this course.
Software does not teach this class. The course uses several approaches to appeal to different learning styles. While there are computer aided explanations and exercises, the instructor is an integral part of the course. The Personal Academic Notebook can act as a traditional textbook for those who prefer hard-copy.
Classes include mini-lectures, traditional homework and traditional tests. The instructor provides you with individualized help when the class works on computer lessons. Your style of learning allows you a choice between using software or the Personal Academic Notebook to learn the material. You may also change the emphasis at different points in the course.
|
Syllabus |
| Topic |
|
Day Evening
Classes |
| Real Numbers |
|
5 4 |
| Solving Linear Equations |
|
5 4 |
| Introduction to Graphing |
|
2 1 |
| Graphing Linear Equations |
|
3 2 |
| Solving Linear Systems |
|
4 3 |
| Exponents and Polynomials |
|
5 4 |
| Factoring |
|
4 3 |
| Rational Expressions |
|
4 3 |
| Rational Exponents and Radicals |
|
4 2 |
| Quadratic Equations |
|
4 3 |
| Tests |
|
3 2 |
| Total |
|
43 31 |
|
| Final Exam |
The final exam is comprehensive and departmental.
|
| Competency Test |
In order to pass the course you must pass an on-line competency test on basic algebra.
|
| Resources |
The
Math Center
located in Cooper Wilson 321 offers free tutoring in college algebra.
|
| Attendance |
You should attend class regularly. |
Academics