College Algebra (MATH 1100) Syllabus and Course Structure Study Guide

Course Overview

Course Information

This study guide summarizes the syllabus and structure for College Algebra (MATH 1100) at SOWELA Technical Community College. The course covers foundational and advanced algebraic concepts, including equations, inequalities, functions, and systems, as outlined in the standard college algebra curriculum.

• Course Title: College Algebra (MATH 1100)

• Credit Hours: 3 (Lecture only)

• Delivery: Online (Canvas, Pearson MyLab)

• Instructor: Lili Cheng

• Required Materials: Course Notes Packet, Pearson Access Code, simple calculator (no graphic calculators allowed)

Course Structure and Assessment

Grading and Assessment Measures

The course uses a combination of homework, quizzes, unit tests, and a comprehensive final exam to assess student learning. Extra credit is available for completing proctored practice tests.

• Homework (MyMathLab): 15%

• Quizzes (MyMathLab): 15%

• Unit Tests: 40% (20% each)

• Final Exam: 30%

• Extra Credit: 5 points for completing Honorlock Practice Test and Access Pearson by deadline

Grading Scale

Grade	Percentage	Description
A	90-100%	Excellent; 4 grade points
B	80-89%	Above average; 3 grade points
C	70-79%	Average; 2 grade points
D	60-69%	Below average; 1 grade point
F	59% or below	Failure; 0 grade points
I	Incomplete	No credit; must be resolved by deadline

Course Topics and Calendar

Major Topics Covered

The course content aligns with the following college algebra chapters:

• Ch. R: Review of Basic Concepts

• Ch. 1: Equations and Inequalities

• Ch. 2: Graphs and Functions

• Ch. 3: Polynomial and Rational Functions

• Ch. 4: Inverse, Exponential, and Logarithmic Functions

• Ch. 5: Systems and Matrices

• Ch. 6: Analytic Geometry

• Ch. 7: Further Topics in Algebra

Each week, students are expected to complete readings, homework, quizzes, and tests according to the schedule provided in Canvas. The course calendar details which sections are covered each week and when major assessments occur.

Proctored Assessment Procedures

Test Rules and Academic Integrity

All tests are proctored online using Honorlock and require strict adherence to rules regarding workspace, webcam placement, and permitted materials. Academic integrity is emphasized, and violations result in severe penalties.

• Workspace: Must sit at a desk or table, well-lit area, no distractions.

• Webcam: Full face, both hands, and workspace must be visible.

• Permitted Materials: Simple calculator, blank scratch paper, formula sheet (for Test 2 and Final).

• Submission: Written work must be emailed within 5 minutes after test completion.

• Academic Integrity: No unauthorized materials, plagiarism, or cheating. Violations result in a grade of 0% and possible further disciplinary action.

Student Learning Outcomes

Skills Developed

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

• Solve polynomial equations

• Solve and graph mathematical inequalities

• Interpret and revise information to create mathematical models

• Interpret and compute formulas

• Use algebraic concepts to perform function operations

• Apply computational skills for problem solving

Course Policies

Attendance and Withdrawal

• Attendance: Essential for success; online attendance tracked via Canvas.

• Withdrawal: Students may drop or withdraw from courses according to published deadlines. Failure to attend or withdraw properly may result in a grade of "F".

Late Work and Make-Up Policy

• Homework and Quizzes: Open throughout the semester; due before the Final Exam.

• Tests: No make-up tests or retakes. One missed test may be replaced by the final exam score with proper documentation.

Accessibility and Student Services

Accessibility Policy

Students with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations. Documentation must be provided to the Office of Student Services. Service animals are permitted as defined by law.

Student Services

SOWELA offers a range of student services, including counseling, academic support, and resources for students under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Policies are in place to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment.

Course Transferability and Accreditation

Transferability

Courses may transfer to other Louisiana public colleges and universities. Students should consult the Board of Regents Master Course Articulation Matrix and contact receiving institutions for confirmation.

Accreditation

SOWELA Technical Community College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

Summary Table: Course Assessment Components

Component	Weight	Notes
Homework	15%	Unlimited attempts, online
Quizzes	15%	Timed, two attempts
Unit Tests	40%	Proctored, show work required
Final Exam	30%	Comprehensive, proctored
Extra Credit	5 points	Honorlock Practice Test completion

Additional info: This guide is based on the official syllabus and course structure for College Algebra at SOWELA Technical Community College. It is intended to help students understand course expectations, policies, and assessment methods, and to prepare for success in college-level algebra.