College Algebra (Math 1111) – Syllabus and Course Overview Study Notes

Course Overview

This course, Math 1111 (College Algebra), focuses on the use of algebraic techniques to solve and model mathematical problems. The curriculum covers fundamental concepts of algebra, equations, inequalities, functions, and graphs, providing a foundation for further study in mathematics and related fields.

Instructor and Course Information

• Instructor: Alex Folarin

• Office Location: Morris Hall 7245F

• Email: [e-mail]

• Class Meetings: On campus, Tuesday and Thursday, 1:00–2:15 PM

• Credit Hours: 3

• Textbook: College Algebra, Blitzer, 9th Edition

Course Requirements

This is a traditional face-to-face class. Regular attendance and participation are required. All homework assignments are completed online through MyMathLab. Assignments are due at 11:59 PM on the assigned due date. A tentative schedule will be provided.

Course Description and Competencies

The course emphasizes algebraic techniques for solving mathematical problems. Key topics include:

• Fundamental Concepts of Algebra

• Equations and Inequalities

• Functions and Graphs

• Systems of Equations

• Optional Topics

Approximate instructional time for each topic:

Topic	Minutes
Fundamental Concepts of Algebra	150
Equations and Inequalities	750
Functions and Graphs	550
Systems of Equations	150
Optional Topics	550
Total Course Length	2250

Grading and Evaluation

Grades are determined by the following components:

Assignment	% of Grade
Classwork/Homework	25%
Tests	25%
Final Exam	50%
Participation	5%
TOTAL	100%

• Classwork/Homework: Graded weekly via MyMathLab. Unlimited attempts are allowed; the highest score is recorded.

• Tests: Timed, covering major units. Partial credit may be given for work showing understanding.

• Final Exam: Comprehensive, covering all course material.

• Participation: Based on attendance and engagement.

Grading Scale:

Grade	Score Range
A	90–100%
B	80–89%
C	70–79%
D	60–69%
F	< 59%

Key Course Topics

Fundamental Concepts of Algebra

This topic introduces the basic building blocks of algebra, including operations with real numbers, properties of exponents, and the order of operations.

• Real Numbers: Includes rational and irrational numbers.

• Order of Operations: The sequence in which operations are performed: Parentheses, Exponents, Multiplication/Division, Addition/Subtraction (PEMDAS).

• Properties of Exponents: Rules for manipulating exponents, such as $a^m \cdot a^n = a^{m+n}$.

• Algebraic Expressions: Combinations of variables, numbers, and operations.

• Example: Simplify $2(x + 3) - 4x$.

Equations and Inequalities

This section covers methods for solving linear, quadratic, and other types of equations and inequalities.

• Linear Equations: Equations of the form $ax + b = 0$.

• Quadratic Equations: Equations of the form $ax^2 + bx + c = 0$; solved by factoring, completing the square, or using the quadratic formula: $x = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}$.

• Inequalities: Statements about the relative size of two expressions, such as $x + 2 > 5$.

• Example: Solve $2x - 5 = 9$.

Functions and Graphs

This topic explores the concept of a function, function notation, and the graphical representation of functions.

• Definition of a Function: A relation in which each input has exactly one output.

• Function Notation: $f(x)$ represents the output when $x$ is the input.

• Graphing Functions: Plotting points $(x, f(x))$ on the coordinate plane.

• Domain and Range: The set of possible inputs (domain) and outputs (range).

• Example: If $f(x) = 2x + 1$, find $f(3)$.

Systems of Equations

This section covers methods for solving systems of linear equations, including graphing, substitution, and elimination.

• System of Equations: Two or more equations with the same variables.

• Graphical Solution: The point(s) where the graphs intersect.

• Algebraic Methods: Substitution and elimination methods.

• Example: Solve the system: $\begin{cases} x + y = 5 \\ x - y = 1 \end{cases}$.

Optional Topics

Depending on time and class progress, additional topics may include polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and applications of algebra in real-world contexts.

• Polynomial Functions: Functions of the form $f(x) = a_nx^n + \ldots + a_1x + a_0$.

• Exponential Functions: Functions where the variable is in the exponent, e.g., $f(x) = a^x$.

• Logarithmic Functions: The inverse of exponential functions, e.g., $f(x) = \log_a x$.

• Applications: Modeling growth and decay, financial mathematics, etc.

Academic Policies and Support

• Attendance: Regular attendance is required for success.

• Academic Honesty: Cheating and plagiarism are prohibited and subject to disciplinary action.

• Work Ethics: Students are evaluated on appearance, attendance, attitude, character, communication, cooperation, organizational skills, productivity, respect, and teamwork.

• Library Support: Access to resources and research assistance is available.

• Online Tutoring: Free online tutoring is available 24/7 via Tutor.com.

• Accommodations: Students with disabilities may request classroom accommodations.

Summary Table: Key Algebraic Concepts

Concept	Definition	Example
Linear Equation	An equation of the first degree	$2x + 3 = 7$
Quadratic Equation	An equation of the second degree	$x^2 - 4x + 4 = 0$
Function	Relation assigning one output to each input	$f(x) = x^2$
Inequality	Statement comparing two values	$x - 2 > 5$
System of Equations	Set of equations with common variables	$\begin{cases} x + y = 3 \\ x - y = 1 \end{cases}$

Additional info: These notes are based on the course syllabus and provide a structured overview of the main topics and expectations for College Algebra (Math 1111). For detailed content, refer to the course textbook and online resources provided by the instructor.