Master Syllabus MA0052, College Algebra Plus

Credits 2 Lab Hours 0 Lecture Hours 2 Clinical Hours 0
This course is a co-requisite of MA 1173 for those students assessed at a level below college-level algebra. This course emphasizes active learning, critical thinking skills, and algebra skills needed to be successful in MA 1173. This course will not count for graduation.

For each unit of credit, a minimum of three hours per week with one of the hours for class and two hours for studying/preparation outside of class is expected.

Program and/or Department Mission Statement

The Mathematics Department at Seward County Community College will enhance a student's ability to think critically using mathematical principles, ideas, and concepts in order to function in a society with ever-changing technology.

SCCC Outcomes

Outcome #4: Demonstrate mathematical skills by using a variety of techniques and technologies.

Outcome #5: Demonstrate the ability to think critically by gathering facts, generating insights, analyzing data, and evaluating information.

Course Outcomes

Analysis and Graphing of Functions and Equations

Solutions of Equations and Inequalities

  1. Use functional notation.
  2. Recognize and distinguish between functions and relations (equations).
  3. Use concepts of symmetry, intercepts, left- and right-hand behavior, asymptotes, and transformations to sketch the graph of various types of functions (constant, linear, quadratic, absolute value, piecewise-defined, square root, cubic, polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic) or relations (circle) given in description.
  4. Determine the domain and range of a function.
  5. Write the equation that describes a function (for types given above) or circle given its description.
  6. Use graphs of functions for analysis. 7. Find arithmetic combinations and composites of functions.
  7. Find the inverse of a function.
  8. Solve equations listed in the third bullet above, i.e., literal equations, quadratic equations by factoring and the quadratic formula, equations involving rational expressions, equations involving radicals, and equations involving absolute value expressions, along with equations involving exponential or logarithmic functions.
  9. Solve inequalities of the following types: linear (in one and two variables), polynomial, rational, absolute value.
  10. Solve systems of inequalities by graphing.
  11. Apply equations from the first bullet in this core outcome to real-world situations, including but not limited to depreciation, growth and decay, and max/min problems.
  12. Examine and analyze data, make predictions/interpretations, and do basic modeling.
  13. Solve systems of equations by various methods, including matrices.
Course Outline
  1. Linear functions: graphing, finding solutions, writing equations
  2. Solving linear equation and inequalities
  3. Domain and Range of various functions using interval notation
  4. Transformations of functions
  5. Using technology to graph functions 6. Graph piecewise functions
  6. Complex numbers
  7. Solving quadratic equations by factoring, completing the square, quadratic formula and square root method.
  8. Solving rational and radical equations 9. Solving absolute equations and inequalities
  9. Long and synthetic division of polynomials
  10. Factoring polynomials
  11. Simplifying rational expressions
  12. Graphing polynomial and rational functions
  13. Composition of functions
  14. Properties of exponents
  15. Graphical analysis of systems of linear equations and inequalities
  16. Applications of systems of linear equations
Instructional Methods

1. Lecture/Discussion

2. Written assignments

3. Calculator and/or computer exercises

4. Whiteboard drills

5. Calculator demonstrations

6. Quizzes

7. Individual help

 

Instructional Resources and Materials

1. Textbook

2. Library mathematics reference books

3. Supplementary materials prepared by the instructor

4. Computer tutorial programs

5. Computer projector and laptop computer used for computer demonstrations

6. Graphing calculator

 

Methods of Assessment

Methods of assessing the general course outcomes and the specific course competencies include

tests, daily quizzes, and class attendance.

SCCC Outcome 4 will be assessed and measured by quizzes and use of a graphing calculator. SCCC

Outcome 5 will be assessed and measured using assignments and nontraditional problem solving

activities.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, Seward County Community College will make reasonable accommodations for students with documented disabilities. If you need support or assistance because of a disability, you may be eligible for academic accommodations. Students should identify themselves to the Mental Health Counselor at 620-417-1106 or go to the Student Success Center in the Hobble Academic building, room A149.

Reviewed Date