College Algebra, 3rd ed. Larson, Hostetler, Edwards. Copyright 1993, D.C. Heath
and Company. (Required)
Study and Solutions Guide. Dianna L. Zook. Copyright 1993, D.C. Heath and
Company (Optional)
Prerequisite:
The prerequisite is successful completion of Math 098, Intermediate Algebra, sufficient
score on a placement exam, or permission of the Dean of the Industrial Technology and
Mathematics Division.
Course Description:
Mathematics 116, College Algebra, is a concentrated study of the topics traditionally
found in College Algebra. The topics include a quick and intense review of the topics
from Intermediate Algebra, including algebraic expressions, polynomials, equations,
problem solving, complex numbers, and graphing. Major topics include functions,
exponential and logarithmic functions, matrices, polynomial equations, inequalities,
introduction to analytic geometry, conic sections, systems of equations, mathematical
induction, and the binomial expansion theorem.
General Course Objectives:
To increase the student's mastery of the deductive nature of reasoning. To understand
the nature of critical thinking. To increase the student's ability in problem solving. To
increase the student's ability to work with others towards a common goal. The student
is expected to:
1) demonstrate an understanding of the concepts related to functions and their inverses.
2) identify and graph quadratic, polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic
functions as well as the conic sections; also, demonstrate knowledge of the properties of
these functions and relations and apply this knowledge to real world situations. 3)
demonstrate proficiency in solving linear and non-linear systems using various algebraic,
matrix, and graphical methods. 4) graphically represent the solutions to inequalities and
system of inequalities that involve two variables. 5) use appropriate theorems and
techniques to locate the roots of second and higher degree polynomial equations.
6) use the notation and formulae associated with arithmetic and geometric sequences
and series. 7) demonstrate knowledge of binomial expansion, Pascal's triangle, and
combinatorial formulae. 8) use technology appropriately in problem solving and in
exploring and developing mathematical concepts.
Type of Instruction:
Lecture, discussion, problem solving, and group work will be used. Students should
come to class with a prepared list of questions.
Attendance Policy:
Regular attendance is essential for satisfactory completion of this course. If you have
excessive absences, you cannot develop to your fullest potential in the course. Students
who, because of excessive absences, cannot complete the course successfully at
midterm, will be administratively dropped from the class.
If a student must miss class, a call to the instructor (RCC's phone system has an
answering system) is to be made, or an email message sent.
The student is responsible for all assignments, changes in assignments, or other verbal
information given in the class, whether you are in attendance or not.
Test Policy:
If a student must miss class, a call to the instructor (RCC's phone system has an
answering system) is to be made, or an email message sent.
When a test is going to be missed, the student should contact the instructor ahead of
time if at all possible. Under certain circumstances, arrangements can be made to take
the test before the scheduled time.
If circumstances arise where arrangements cannot be made ahead of time, the instructor
should be notified and a brief explanation of why given by either voice or email. At the
instructors discretion, the score on the final exam may be substituted for the missed
exam.
Grading Policy:
There will be several one hour examinations and a comprehensive final examination.
Announced and unannounced quizzes may be given. Laboratory and homework
exercises may be used in grading. Collected assignments will lose 10% of the grade for
each class period late. A grade may be taken on your notebook. Note: Homework is
essential to the study of mathematics. Letter grades will be assigned to final adjusted
scores as follows: A=90-100%; B=80-89%; C=70-79%; D=60-69%; F=0-59%.
Consideration will be given to such qualities as attendance, class participation,
attentiveness, attitude in class, and cooperation to produce the maximum learning
situation for everyone.
Any student who stops attending without dropping will receive a grade of F.
Notebooks:
A notebook should be kept which contains every problem worked in class as well as any
comments that are appropriate. In general, it should contain everything written on the
chalkboard. Be sure to bring your notebook if you come to the instructor or a tutor for
help. I strongly urge you to get a three-ring binder to keep your papers in.
Topics to be covered:
Algebraic Equations and Inequalities; Functions and Graphs; Polynomial Functions:
Graphs and Zeros; Rational Functions and Conic Sections; Exponential and Logarithmic
Functions; Systems of Equations and Inequalities; Matrices and Determinants;
Sequences and Counting Principles.
Calculators:
Calculators may be used to do homework. Calculators may be used on exams and/or
quizzes in class unless otherwise announced. The calculator should be a scientific
calculator capable of doing trigonometric work. A graphing calculator, such as the TI-82, TI-83, or TI-85, is also a useful tool and highly recommended, but not required.
Additional Supplies:
The student should have a red pen, ruler, graph paper, stapler, and paper punch. The
student is expected to bring calculators and supplies as needed to class. There will be a
paper punch and stapler available in the classroom.
Additional Help:
Office hours will be announced. Anytime I am in my office, feel free to stop and get
help. The student is encouraged to seek additional help when the material is not
comprehended. Mathematics is a cumulative subject; therefore, getting behind is a very
difficult situation for the student.
There are video tapes for this course on reserve in the Learning Resources Center. If
your class(es) leave you puzzled, the Study Assistance Center is a service that Richland
Community College offers you free of charge.