This course is for the college student who has not had an algebra course previously or for the student who needs a refresher course in the basic algebra concepts. This course will begin with a brief review of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of integers, decimals, and fractions as well as ratio and percent. This will include basic definitions, algebraic expressions; linear equations and inequalities in one variable; rectangular coordinates, slope, and graphs of linear equations in two variables; polynomials and factoring; rational expressions; radicals and complex numbers; and quadratic equations. Successful completion of this course should prepare the student for their first college level mathematics course. This course does not count toward 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.
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.
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.
Outcome #6: Exhibit skills in information and technological literacy.
- To add, subtract, multiply, and divide real and complex numbers.
- To manipulate ratios and percentages along with their applications.
- To learn the English and metric systems of measurements, convert between units in each system, and convert from one system to another, and (to) apply it in problem solving.
- To utilize geometric formulas to find perimeter and area of two-dimensional shapes and find surface area and volume for three-dimensional solids.
- To utilize procedures for manipulating algebraic expressions, including the properties of real numbers and order of operations.
- To graph a linear equation in two variables including vertical and horizontal lines.
- To find the equation of lines given the slope and a point on the line, or other sufficient information.
- To classify polynomials and define monomials, binomials, trinomials, the terms, coefficients, and degrees of polynomials.
- To add, subtract, multiply and divide algebraic expressions, polynomials, and rational expressions.
- To factor polynomial expressions using grouping, trinomial factoring, and special formulas.
- To solve equations including linear equations, quadratic equations by factoring, square root method, completing the square and quadratic formula, equations involving rational expressions, equations involving radicals, and equations involving absolute value expressions.
- To solve linear inequalities in one variable, and absolute value inequalities.
- To apply equations such as constant, linear in one and two variables, quadratic, and rational to real world situations.
- To simplify expressions containing integer or rational exponents. This includes radical expressions.
- Adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing real numbers and how real numbers relate on the number line.
- Using percentages, including ratios and proportions, percent notation and converting to decimal notation; solving percent problems and applications.
- Solving applications with geometry, including perimeter and area, surface area and volume, similar triangles, and Pythagorean Theorem.
- Evaluate units through dimensional analysis, including linear measures, weight and mass, capacity, time, and temperature to use in application problems.
- Evaluating and simplifying variable expressions.
- Solving linear equations and inequalities and their applications.
- Solving linear absolute value equations and absolute value inequalities in one variable.
- Graphing linear equations in two variables by plotting points, using a point and a slope and using x and y intercepts.
- Graphing vertical and horizontal lines.
- Using the slope formula, distance formula and midpoint formula.
- Writing the equations of all lines including vertical, horizontal, parallel, and perpendicular lines.
- Using the properties of integer exponents to simplify expressions.
- Classify polynomials and define monomials, binomials, trinomials, the terms, coefficients, and degrees of polynomials.
- Adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing polynomials in one or many variables.
- Factoring using greatest common factors, grouping, trinomial factoring and using special formulas such as difference of squares, difference of cubes and sum of cubes.
- Performing basic operations with rational expressions. Reducing complex fractions.
- Solving equations involving rational expressions and using rational equations in applications.
- Simplify and perform operations with radicals and rational exponents. Solving equations involving radicals.
- Introducing complex numbers and operations including adding, subtracting, and multiplying with complex numbers.
- Solving quadratic equations using the factoring method, square root property, completing the square, and the quadratic formula.
- Lecture. Lectures will be used to emphasize different concepts of the daily lessons.
- Assignments. Students will work selected problems in order to involve the student and assure his or her understanding of the skills required for future work. Homework and quizzes for this course are done utilizing Pearson’s MyMathLab site.
- Class Discussions. Questions may be initiated by either the teacher or students at any time during class discussions.
- Cooperative learning techniques for selected concepts.
- Examinations. Tests are frequently used to help summarize concepts and emphasize important skills.
- Individual Help.
- MyMathLab computer access which includes the etext, study plan, and videos.
- Supplemental texts and library mathematics reference books
- Supplemental materials available on Canvas.
SCCC Outcome #4 will be assessed and measured by class participation, regular assignments, and tests.
SCCC Outcome #5 will be assessed and measured using assignments, tests and nontraditional problem-solving activities.
SCCC Outcome #6 will be assessed and measured by using an in class assessment.
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.