College Algebra Syllabus and Course Overview – MATH 1314

Course Overview

Introduction to College Algebra

This syllabus outlines the structure, policies, and expectations for College Algebra (MATH 1314), a foundational mathematics course designed to prepare students for further study in mathematics and related fields. The course covers essential algebraic concepts, including functions, equations, inequalities, and systems, with applications to real-world problems.

• Credit Hours: 3

• Term: Spring 2026

• Instructor: Tonya McCleskey

• Delivery Mode: Online

Course Content and Learning Outcomes

Topics Covered

The course content aligns with standard college algebra curricula and includes the following major topics:

• Polynomial, Rational, Radical, Absolute Value, Piecewise-defined, Exponential, and Logarithmic Functions

• Equations and Inequalities (including polynomial, rational, and absolute value inequalities)

• Graphing Skills and Graphing Techniques

• Systems of Equations (solved using matrices)

• Sequences, Series, Probability, Conic Sections, and Inverses (as additional topics)

Student Learning Outcomes

• Recognize, graph, and apply various types of functions and solve related equations.

• Solve and apply systems of linear equations using matrices.

• Solve inequalities, including absolute value, polynomial, and rational inequalities.

• Evaluate all roots of higher-degree polynomial and rational functions.

• Demonstrate knowledge of function properties, including domain, range, operations, compositions, inverses, and piecewise definitions.

• Apply graphing techniques to analyze and interpret functions and equations.

Course Structure and Assessment

Grading Components

Student performance is assessed through a combination of homework, exams, and a cumulative final exam. All assignments and exams are administered via MyMathLab.

Assessment	Percent of Final Average
Exams (3 total)	50%
Homework	30%
Final Exam (Cumulative)	20%

Final Letter Grades:

Letter Grade	Final Average (%)
A	90-100
B	80-89
C	70-79
D	60-69
F	<60

Assignment Policies

• Homework is assigned for each section and completed in MyMathLab. Written work is recommended for organization and understanding.

• Late assignments incur a 5% deduction per day.

• Three major exams and a cumulative final exam are required; no retests are allowed.

• All grades are posted in MyMathLab.

Course Materials and Technology

Required Textbook

• Title: College Algebra

• Author: Blitzer

• Edition: 8th

• Publisher: Pearson

• ISBN: 9780136970

Access to the e-book and MyMathLab is provided through the STAR Bundle, unless the student opts out.

Technology Requirements

• Students are expected to use computer technology for homework and exams.

• Digital materials are accessed via D2L (Learning Management System).

Important Dates

• Course Start: January 20, 2026

• Official Day of Record (ODR): February 2, 2026

• Midpoint Day of Record (MDR): March 30, 2026

• Last Day to Withdraw: April 10, 2026

• Final Exam Period: May 11-17, 2026

Policies and Student Support

Attendance and Participation

• Active participation is required for financial aid eligibility and academic success.

• Students must complete an assignment within the first week to avoid being dropped as a 'No Show.'

Academic Integrity

• Cheating on exams results in a zero grade and possible course failure.

• Students are expected to adhere to the Lone Star College Academic Integrity and Student Code of Conduct policies.

Withdrawal Policy

• Students are responsible for withdrawing from the course by the posted deadline if desired.

• Withdrawals after the official day of record result in a 'W' on the transcript.

Student Support Services

• Disability Services and accommodations are available upon request.

• Additional support includes tutoring, counseling, library resources, and more.

Summary of Major College Algebra Topics

• Equations and Inequalities: Linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, and absolute value equations and inequalities.

• Functions and Graphs: Definitions, domain and range, operations, compositions, inverses, and graphing techniques.

• Polynomial and Rational Functions: Properties, zeros, graphing, and applications.

• Exponential and Logarithmic Functions: Properties, equations, and real-world applications.

• Systems of Equations and Matrices: Solving systems using matrices and determinants.

• Conic Sections, Sequences, Series, and Probability: Additional topics as time permits.

Additional info: For detailed content on each topic, refer to the course textbook and MyMathLab assignments. This syllabus provides the framework for the course; specific chapter content aligns with standard college algebra curricula as outlined in the course description.