College Algebra (MATH 1600) Syllabus and Course Structure

Course Overview

This syllabus outlines the structure, requirements, and policies for MATH 1600: Pathway to Calculus: College Algebra at CT State Community College. The course is designed to prepare students for STEM majors and future mathematics coursework, covering foundational algebraic concepts and functions.

Course Topics and Structure

Ch. R - Review of Basic Concepts

• Basic Algebraic Operations: Review of arithmetic operations, order of operations, and properties of real numbers.

• Exponents and Radicals: Simplifying expressions involving exponents and radicals.

• Factoring: Techniques for factoring polynomials and solving basic equations.

Ch. 1 - Equations and Inequalities

• Linear Equations and Inequalities: Solving and graphing linear equations and inequalities in one variable.

• Absolute Value Equations: Solving equations and inequalities involving absolute values.

• Quadratic Equations: Methods for solving quadratic equations, including factoring, completing the square, and the quadratic formula.

• Applications: Word problems and modeling with equations and inequalities.

• Example: Solve $2x + 5 = 11$ for $x$.

Ch. 2 - Graphs and Functions

• Relations and Functions: Definition of a function, domain and range, and function notation.

• Graphing Functions: Techniques for graphing linear, quadratic, and other basic functions.

• Transformations: Shifts, stretches, compressions, and reflections of function graphs.

• Piecewise Functions: Definition and graphing of piecewise-defined functions.

• Example: Graph $f(x) = |x|$ and describe its key features.

Ch. 3 - Polynomial and Rational Functions

• Polynomial Functions: Identifying degree, leading coefficient, and end behavior.

• Factoring and Zeros: Finding zeros of polynomial functions and using the Factor Theorem.

• Graphing: Sketching graphs of polynomial and rational functions, including intercepts and asymptotes.

• Rational Functions: Simplifying, finding domains, and analyzing asymptotic behavior.

• Example: Find the zeros of $f(x) = x^2 - 5x + 6$.

Ch. 4 - Inverse, Exponential, and Logarithmic Functions

• Inverse Functions: Definition, notation, and finding inverses algebraically and graphically.

• Exponential Functions: Properties, graphing, and applications of exponential growth and decay.

• Logarithmic Functions: Definition, properties, and solving logarithmic equations.

• Applications: Real-world problems involving exponential and logarithmic models.

• Example: Solve $2^x = 8$ for $x$.

Course Policies and Grading

Grading Components

Component	Points
Homework	240
Quizzes	120
Exams (3 x 110 pts each)	330
Final Exam	180
Total	870

Grading Scale

Letter Grade	Grade Scale (%)	GPA Equivalency	Description
A	93-100	4.0	Distinguished achievement in all phases of the course
A-	90-92	3.7
B+	87-89	3.3	High level of achievement in some phases of the course
B	83-86	3.0
B-	80-82	2.7
C+	77-79	2.3	Competent achievement in the subject area
C	73-76	2.0
C-	70-72	1.7
D+	67-69	1.3	Marginal performance on the course or the subject area
D	63-66	1.0
D-	60-62	0.7
F	0-59	0.0	Minimal performance

Student Learning Outcomes

• Use multiple representations to understand and solve function problems, including linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions.

• Analyze and graph functions, including transformations and combinations.

• Solve equations and inequalities algebraically and graphically.

• Apply algebraic concepts to real-world and STEM-related problems.

Required Textbook and Materials

• Textbook: College Algebra 13th edition by Lial, Hornsby, Schneider & Daniels

• Calculator: A scientific or graphing calculator is required.

• MyMathLab Access Code: Required for online assignments.

Course Outline and Projected Textbook Coverage

• Chapter R – Review of Basic Concepts

• Chapter 1 – Equations and Inequalities

• Chapter 2 – Graphs and Functions

• Chapter 3 – Polynomial and Rational Functions

• Chapter 4 – Inverse, Exponential, and Logarithmic Functions

Additional Policies

• Academic Integrity: Plagiarism and cheating are strictly prohibited.

• Attendance: Regular attendance and participation are expected.

• Accommodations: Students with documented disabilities should contact the Office of Disability or Accessibility Services.

• Withdrawal Policy: Students are responsible for understanding withdrawal deadlines and policies.

Additional info: This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the College Algebra course, including topics, grading, policies, and resources. It is intended as a reference for students enrolled in the course.