Intermediate Algebra (MATH 120) Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

This course, Intermediate Algebra (MATH 120), is designed to prepare students for College Algebra by providing a foundational background in number theory and algebra. The curriculum covers essential topics such as the real number system, linear equations, polynomials, exponents, rational expressions, roots, and radicals. The course emphasizes both conceptual understanding and practical problem-solving skills, aligning with the needs of students pursuing further studies in mathematics or related fields.

Course Materials

• Textbook: Introductory Algebra for College Students by Robert F. Blitzer, 8th Edition, Pearson.

• Access: MyLab Math with Pearson eText (18-Weeks Access Card).

• Open Educational Resources (OER) may supplement or replace the textbook as permitted by the instructor.

Course Learning Outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge of fundamental mathematical concepts, symbols, and principles.

• Perform numerical calculations and algebraic manipulations of linear equations.

• Manipulate mathematical formulas and solve for variables.

• Solve word problems requiring mathematical analysis and quantitative reasoning.

• Perform algebraic manipulations on polynomial and rational expressions.

Major Topics Covered

• Variables, Real Numbers, and Mathematical Models

• Linear Equations and Inequalities in One Variable

• Linear Equations and Inequalities in Two Variables

• Systems of Linear Equations and Inequalities

• Exponents and Polynomials

• Factoring Polynomials

• Rational Expressions

• Roots and Radicals

• Quadratic Equations and Introduction to Functions

Course Structure and Assessment

Assignments and Grading

Activity	Points
Homework (8 sets @ 10 points each)	80
Discussion Forums (8 @ 5 points each)	40
Quizzes (4 @ 30 points each)	120
Tests (4 @ 100 points each)	400
Total	640

Grade Scale:

Grade	Percent	Points
A	90-100%	576-640
B	80-89%	512-575
C	70-79%	448-511
D	60-69%	384-447
F	<60%	0-383

Assessment Tools

• Homework: Practice problems for each textbook section, completed via MyMathLab.

• Discussion Forums: Participation in module-based forums, including posting and answering questions.

• Quizzes: Four timed quizzes, each covering specific modules.

• Tests: Four timed tests, each covering multiple modules (not cumulative).

• Extra Credit: Earned by answering peers' questions in discussion forums (written or video response).

Weekly Class Schedule (Modules)

Module	Topics	Assignments	Due Dates
1	Sections 1.1 – 1.4	Homework, Discussion, Quiz	Week 1
2	Sections 1.5 – 1.8	Homework, Discussion, Test	Week 2
3	Sections 2.1 – 2.4	Homework, Discussion, Quiz	Week 2
4	Sections 2.5, 2.7, 3.1, 3.2	Homework, Discussion, Test	Week 3
5	Sections 3.3 – 3.6	Homework, Discussion, Quiz	Week 4
6	Sections 5.1 – 5.4	Homework, Discussion, Test	Week 5
7	Sections 5.5 – 5.7, 6.1	Homework, Discussion, Quiz	Week 6
8	Sections 6.2 – 6.5	Homework, Discussion, Test	Week 7

Key Policies and Resources

• Academic Integrity: Strict adherence to the university's academic honesty policy is required. Violations include plagiarism, cheating, and unauthorized use of generative AI (except as provided in MyMathLab).

• Testing Procedures: Online quizzes and tests require the use of Respondus LockDown Browser and Monitor, with both a primary webcam and a secondary camera.

• Student Support: Free tutoring, library resources, technology support, and counseling services are available to all students.

• Attendance: Active participation in online activities is required to confirm enrollment and maintain attendance.

Additional Information

• Disability Services: Reasonable accommodations are available for students with documented disabilities.

• Title IX: The university is committed to a safe, non-discriminatory environment. Incidents of sexual misconduct should be reported to the Title IX Coordinator.

• Technology Requirements: Students must have a laptop meeting university specifications and reliable internet access.

• Online Behavior: Professional and respectful communication is expected in all online interactions.

Summary of Main Algebra Topics (for Reference)

• Variables and Real Numbers: Understanding the properties and operations of real numbers, and the use of variables in mathematical expressions.

• Linear Equations and Inequalities: Techniques for solving equations and inequalities in one and two variables, including graphical and algebraic methods.

• Systems of Equations: Methods for solving systems, such as substitution and elimination.

• Polynomials and Exponents: Operations with polynomials, laws of exponents, and applications.

• Factoring: Techniques for factoring polynomials, including greatest common factor, trinomials, and special products.

• Rational Expressions: Simplifying, multiplying, dividing, adding, and subtracting rational expressions.

• Roots and Radicals: Simplifying radical expressions and solving equations involving roots.

• Quadratic Equations: Solving quadratics by factoring, completing the square, and the quadratic formula.

• Introduction to Functions: Understanding the concept of a function and its representation.

For detailed study, refer to the assigned textbook sections and MyMathLab resources as outlined in the weekly schedule.