Math 145—Intermediate Algebra
Syllabus—Spring 2004

Catalog Description

For students who have completed MA 100 or a year or more of high school math. Topics include algebraic operations, factoring, linear equations and inequalities, exponents and radicals, and quadratic equations.

Prerequisite: C or better in MA 100 or equivalent.

Rationale

Math 145 is designed to continue the student's study of the standard algebraic processes. Traditional topics of Intermediate Algebra and their practical applications are studied in detail. Successful completion of the course will enable the student to pursue, with confidence, other mathematics courses at a higher level. This course enhances and offers an opportunity to continue the mathematical learning process.

Goals

The student will:

1. Further study linear equations and inequalities.
2. Examine the properties and applications of rational expressions.
3. Investigate roots, radicals, and their uses.
4. Analyze quadratic equations and their applications.
5. Examine systems of linear equations.
6. Be introduced to exponential and logarithmic functions.

Competencies

1. Solve linear and quadratic equations including ones involving rational, algebraic, absolute value, radicals, and radical algebraic expressions.

   Performance Indicator:

   • Solve, showing each algebraic step clearly on written exams.

2. Correctly determine the equation of a line.

   Performance Indicator:

   • Given a point and the slope, two points, or parallel/perpendicular information, correctly determine the equation of a line.

3. Evaluate algebraic expressions involving order of operations, including work with positive and negative rational and integral exponents.

   Performance Indicator:

   • Evaluate, showing each algebraic step clearly, on written exams.

4. Solve various application and word problems by writing and correctly solving the necessary algebraic equations, assigning and identifying all variables correctly.

   Performance Indicator:

   • Write the equation and solve algebraically.

5. Combine and simplify radical expressions correctly and efficiently, performing all the necessary operations on them.

   Performance Indicator:

   • Simplify and evaluate, showing all algebraic steps clearly on written exams.

6. Solve quadratic equations by factoring and/or use of the quadratic formula.

   Performance Indicators:

   • Factor and solve correctly on written exams.
   • Use the quadratic formula correctly, reducing and simplifying correctly on written exams.

7. Apply basic properties of exponential and logarithmic functions.

   Performance Indicators:

   • Simplify expression involving exponential and logarithmic functions.
   • Sketch graphs.
   • Solve equations involving exponential and logarithmic functions.

Course Information

Text

Gustafson, R. D. & Frisk, P. D. (2002). Beginning and Intermediate Algebra: An Integrated Approach, (3^rd ed.), Pacific Grove, CA: Wadsworth Group.

Course Requirements and Evaluation

Final grades will be determined by the percentage of possible points earned from exams, quizzes, and homework according to the following scale:

Homework

It is essential that you do your homework. Practice is important is learning any new skill. Math is no exception. Homework will be assigned on a regular basis and collected at the beginning of the class session.

Quizzes

There will be frequent quizzes at the beginning (first 5-10 minutes max) of class. The quizzes may cover material we have discussed in class or assigned reading over material that we have yet to cover. The purpose of these quizzes is to prompt you to stay current in reviewing your notes, doing the homework, and studying assigned material before coming to class.

Reading

You are expected to read the assigned sections before attending class. This will help you understand the material that will be covered in class and aid your retention. Math textbooks must be read slowly and carefully. I encourage you to write notes in your books when you see connections and want to remember certain points.

Exams

There will generally be an exam after each chapter covered. You will be informed about which sections each exam covers. You must show your work on exams. A correct answer with no work or work that is unclear will earn you zero points. The final is comprehensive.

Attendance

Attendance is expected and required at each class meeting. If, at any time during the semester, you have absences for half of the classes, you will be dropped from the class and receive a withdraw/fail grade on your transcript. Also, if you miss two consecutive weeks of class, you will be withdrawn from the class. It is understood that many of you will miss class due to sports events and other school related activities. However, this does not excuse you from learning the material covered in class and making up any missed work.

Tentative Schedule

A tentative schedule gives you a rough guideline of what to expect during the semester. However, changes invariably occur, and you will get this information in class.

Final Exam: 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 5

You must take the final exam at the time designated for your class. The final exam is mandatory. Make your travel arrangements accordingly.