College Algebra Syllabus

Fall, 2005 Page 1 of 9

Syllabus for

MTH203 College Algebra

Perquisite: Minimum score of 19 on the mathematics section of the ACT, grade “C” or better in MTH033 Intermediate Algebra, or a minimum score of 43 on the ASSET Intermediate Algebra Skills Placement Exam.

Course Description: Content of this course includes graphing parabolas, circles, ellipses, and hyperbolas; relations and functions; graphing functions; combining functions; inverse functions; direct an inverse variations; solving problems whose mathematical models are polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions; finding zeros of polynomial and rational functions; solving systems of linear and nonlinear equations and inequalities with applications for each; matrices and determinants; systems of nonlinear equations; binomial expansions; arithmetic and geometric sequences and series; and counting techniques and probability.

Required Textbook: Jerome K. Kaufman/Karen Schwitters, Algebra For College Students,

Seventh Edition, Pacific Grove, CA, a division of Thompson Learning, 2004.

Helpful Library References:

1. Donald J. Albers and G.L. Alexanderson. Mathematical People.

2. Daniel Solow. How to Read and do Proofs.

3. David Cohen. Precalculus.

4. Lynn Arthur Steen. On The Shoulders of Giants (New Approaches to Numeracy).

5. Timothy J. Kelly, Richards H Balomenos and John T. Anderson. College Algebra and Trigonometry.

6. Morris Kline. Mathematical Thought from Ancient to Modern Times.

Rationale: By studying and developing an ability to apply the mathematical principles of college algebra, the student will be prepared to study higher mathematics courses. Section 19 of Act 1052 of 1987 implemented a policy that no mathematics course less sophisticated that college algebra may be applied toward a baccalaureate degree from a public university in Arkansas.

Course Objectives: Upon successful completion of MTH203 College Algebra, the student should be able to do the following:

Solve linear, quadratic, and other nonlinear equations and be able to graph the solutions, using pencil and paper as well as the graphics calculator.
Recognize equations and graphs involving the conic sections.

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Recognize graphs and properties of functions and their inverses and interpret data involving graphs.
Perform operations and procedures on polynomials, rational expressions, and numbers (real and complex).
Use exponential and logarithmic functions in practical applications.
Solve systems of equations using two and three variables by various methods, including the graphic calculator.
Use arithmetic and geometric sequences and series to find sums and products and to solve practical application problems.
Perform factorial notations and the binomial expansion.
Apply permutations and combinations to fundamental principles of probability.

Topical/Unit Outline:

Chapter 8: Functions

A. Concept of a Function

B. Linear Function and Applications

C. Quadratic Functions

D. More Quadratic Functions and Applications

E. Transforming of Some Basic Curves

F. Combining Functions

G. Direct and Inverse Variations

Chapter 9: Polynomial and Rational Functions

A. Synthetic Division

B. Remainder and Factor Theorems

C. Polynomial Equations

D. Graphing Polynomial Functions

E. Graphing Rational Functions

F. More on Graphing Rational Functions

Chapter 10: Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

A. Exponents and Exponential Functions

B. Applications of Exponential Functions

C. Inverse Functions

D. Logarithms

E. Logarithmic Functions

F. Exponential Equations, Logarithmic Equations, and Problem Solving

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Chapter 11 Systems of Equations

A. Systems of Two Linear Equations in Two Variables

B. Systems of Three Linear Equations in Three Variables

C. Matrix Approach to Solving Linear Systems

D. Determinants

E. Cramer’s Rule

F. Partial Fractions

Chapter 12: Algebra of Matrices

A. Algebra of 2 X 2 Matrices

B. Multiplicative Inverses

C. m X n Matrices

D. Systems of Linear Inequalities: Linear Programming

Chapter 13: Conic Sections

A. Circles

B. Parabolas

C. Ellipses

D. Hyperbolas

E. Systems Involving Nonlinear Equations

Chapter 14: Sequences and Mathematical Induction

A. Arithmetic Sequences

B. Geometric Sequences

C. Another look at Problem Solving

D. Mathematical Induction

Chapter 15: Counting Techniques, Probability, and the Binomial Theorem

A. Fundamental Principle of Counting

B. Permutation and Combinations

C. Probability

D. Some properties of Probability: Expected Values

E. Conditional Probability: Dependent and Independent Events

F. Binomial Theorem

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Topical/Unit Objectives:

I. To understand and apply the basic mathematical concepts of equations and inequalities.

II. To understand and apply the basic mathematical concepts of functions and their graphs and to use the graphics calculator efficiently.

III. To understand and apply the basic mathematical concepts of nonlinear functions and relations.

IV. To understand and apply the basic mathematical concepts of exponential and logarithmic functions.

V. To understand and apply the basic mathematical concepts of systems of equations and inequalities, matrices and determinants, and linear programming.

VI. To understand and apply the basic mathematical concepts of arithmetic and geometric sequences and series, binomial expansions, counting techniques, and probability.

Course Requirements/Evaluation :

I. An exam will be given upon completion of each chapter unless otherwise stated.

II. Grades will be taken periodically on selected homework problems, quizzes (announced and unannounced), and special problems or projects submitted.

III. A comprehensive final exam shall be given.

IV. Points may be obtained from all three of the above sources – chapter exams; homework, special problems or projects and quizzes; and final exam. The final grade for the course will be determined by dividing the student’s total number of points earned by the total number of possible points for the course.

V. Grades are assigned on the basis of the following percentage scale:

90 - 100 A

80 - 89 B

70 - 79 C

60 - 69 D

0 - 59 F

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First Day Handout

MTH203 College Algebra

Instructor: Mr. Lawrence E. Kropp

Office Location: Room 209, Spencer Hall

Class Location: Room 208, Spencer Hall

Office Hours: See Schedule posted on office door

Telephone: (479)-394-7622 ext. 1334

E-Mail: lkropp@rmcc.edu

Course Title: MTH203 College Algebra

Prerequisite: Minimum score of 19 on the mathematics section of the ACT, grade “C” or better in MTH033 Intermediate Algebra, or a minimum score of 43 on the ASSET Intermediate Algebra Skills Placement Exam.

Required Materials:

1. Jerome E. Kaufman/Karen Schwitters, Algebra for College Students, Seventh Edition, Pacific Grove, CA, A division of Thompson Learning, 2004

2. Loose-leaf or spiral notebook for homework assignments.

3. Pencil or erasable pen only.

Comments on Textbook: This particular textbook is rich in examples that will effectively help you on your homework. Problems are outlined in a step by step procedure which will help you understand the major concepts. Key ideas and concepts are colorfully highlighted in blue, red, and green colors to allow the reader to focus on the major points of each lesson. Graphing calculator images are used effectively to provide visual support for algebraic computation.

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Helpful Library References:

1. Donald J. Albers and G.L. Alexanderson. Mathematical People.

2. Daniel Solow. How to Read and do Proofs.

3. David Cohen. Precalculus.

4. Lynn Arthur Steen. On The Shoulders of Giants (New Approaches to

Numeracy.

5. Timothy J. Kelly, Richard H. Balomenos and John T. Anderson. College

Algebra and Trigonometry.

6. Morris Kline. Mathematical thoughts from Ancient to Modern Times.

Methods of Instruction: The lecture approach, question and answer techniques,

Cooperative learning environment, modern technology calculator and computer usage,TI

83 + View screen Overhead Display, the overhead projector, and the marker

board/chalkboard are primarily the method of instruction employed in this course.

Attendance Policy: Regular attendance and punctuality are expected. Attendance will be

checked each session. It is the responsibility of the student to initiate arrangements for all

missed activities. Excessive absences and work not made up shall adversely affect the grade for the course. (See the 2005-2006 College Catalog.) A student may be dropped from the course in accordance with the provisions outlined below in the event the accumulated absences exceed the following schedule.

3 hour course (M, W, F)……………..4 absences

3 hour course (T, TH)………………..3 absences

Night course………………………….2 absences

Academic Dishonesty Policy: It is expected that each student shall do his/her own work on an exam.

Testing and Grading Procedures: An exam shall be given upon the completion of each chapter unless otherwise stated. Also quizzes (announced or unannounced) may be administered. From time to time throughout the semester, selected homework problems shall be collected for a grade and special problems or projects shall be assigned as homework and shall be submitted or presented for a grade. A comprehensive final exam shall be given. Points may be obtained from a three sources-chapter exams: homework, special problems, projects, and quizzes; and the final exam. The final grade for the course will be determined by dividing the student’s total number of points earned and by the number of possible points for the course. Grades are assigned on the basis of the following percentage scale:

90 – 100 A Quizzes are generally worth 10 to 20 points

80 – 89 B Homework assignments are worth 5 to 10 points

70 – 79 C End of the Chapter Review worksheets are worth 30 points

60 – 69 D Chapter Tests are worth 100 points

0 – 59 F Final Exam is worth 200 points

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Unit and Instructional Objectives: The following objectives for this course of study are presented.

I. To understand and apply the basic mathematical concepts of equations and inequalities.

II. To understand and apply the basic mathematical concepts of functions and their graphs and to efficiently use the graphics calculator.

III. To understand and apply the basic mathematical concepts of nonlinear functions and relations.

IV. To understand and apply the basic mathematical concepts of exponential and logarithmic functions.

V. To understand and apply the basic mathematical concepts of systems of equations and inequalities, matrices and determinants, and linear programming.

VI. To understand and apply the basic mathematical concepts of arithmetic and geometric sequences and series, binomial expansion, counting techniques, and probability.

Oral Reports: Occasionally a student may be asked to work a problem at the chalkboard or at the marker board and present an explanation to the class.

Term Assignments: Homework assignments are given for each session. Students are expected to maintain an up-to-date mathematics notebook, marking any problems that are found to be too difficult to complete. During the next class session those problems shall be explained fully. Occasionally, special problems or projects (to be worked on a separate sheet) are assigned and submitted or presented for a grade. Periodically homework is asked to be handed in. Homework quizzes, and tests are all graded according to correctness, clarity of work, whether directions in showing work have been followed as demonstrated by the instructor, and punctuality in handing work in on time. Acceptable excuses for handing in homework late include illnesses or family emergencies. If you must miss class for any reason it is the responsibility of the student to call my office phone and either talk to me personally or leave a message on my answering machine explaining why you were absent. Also you are to find what homework you missed and either contact me, a tutor, or a student in class on the acceptable ways of doing your homework before the next class session with the expectation that the homework will be completely done when you come to class. Failure to do this will result in reduced and/or no credit for the assigned homework that was asked to be handed in. Exceptions to this rule will be considered in only extreme emergencies.

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Make-up Exam Policy: There will be no make-up exams given except in instances of the most unavoidable, serious circumstances.

Student Support Services: This organization is located in the Abernathy Building on campus. It provides free individual and/or group tutoring to any student on campus. Although participation in these services is not a requirement for the course, those students who regularly attend the tutoring sessions as a general rule attain higher grades than those who do not. All our tutors are well qualified and work closely with the instructor to know how the homework is to be written and displayed. Also the tutors do a great job in preparing the students to be as successful as possible on tests and quizzes that they will take in class. Any student that does not take advantage of this service is missing out on their full potential to do the best they could possibly do.

ADA Policy:

It is the policy of RMCC to accommodate students with disabilities, pursuant to state and federal law. Any student with a disability who needs accommodations, for example in seating placement, examinations, or access to information on the web, should contact the Dean of Students Services Office which is located in the Abernathy Building Room 301, 394-7622 ext. 1400

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Textbook: Algebra for College Students

Authors: Jerome E. Kaufman/Karen Schwitters

Publisher: Brooks/Cole, a division of Thompson Learning

WEEK PROPOSED SCHEDULE OF ASSIGNEMENTS Tentative Schedule

1 P. 395 – 424 8/22 – 8/26

2 P. 425 – 465 8/29 – 9/2

3 P. 466 – 498 AND EXAM CHAPTER 8 9/5 – 9/9

4 P. 499 – 523 9/12 – 9/16

5 P. 524 – 555 AND EXAM CHAPTER 9 9/19 – 9/23

6 P. 556 – 592 9/26 – 9/30

7 P. 593 - 614 AND EXAM CHAPTER 10 10/3 – 10/7

8 P. 615 – 647 10/10 – 10/14

9 P. 648 – 662 AND EXAM CHAPTER 11 10/17 – 10/21

10 P. 663 – 685 10/24 – 10/28

11 P. 686 – 704 AND EXAM CHAPTER 12 10/31 – 11/4

12 P. 705 – 734 11/7 – 11/11

13 P. 735 – 758 AND EXAM CHAPTER 13 11/14 – 11/18

14 P. 759 – 784 11/21 – 11/25

15 P. 811 – 815 QUIZ over sections 14.1-14.3 11/28 – 12/2

Review for FINAL EXAM

16 Review for FINAL EXAM 12/5 – 12/9

There will be No Classes on Monday 9/5, Wednesday 11/23, and Friday 11/25 for the MWF class.

There will be No Class on Thursday 11/24 for the TTH class.