College Algebra Syllabus and Course Overview Study Guide

Course Overview and Structure

Introduction to College Algebra

College Algebra (MATH 1314) at Texas A&M University-San Antonio is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of algebraic concepts and their applications. The course covers fundamental topics such as polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, and logarithmic functions, as well as systems of equations, matrices, sequences, series, probability, and conic sections. The course aims to develop critical thinking, communication, and quantitative skills through mathematical modeling and problem-solving.

• Credit Hours: 3 credits

• Prerequisites: High School Algebra II (grade C or higher) or placement; passing TSIA Math score

• Required Materials: Online access code for College Algebra by Robert F. Blitzer (8th edition) with MyMathLab

• Calculator Policy: Scientific non-graphing, non-programmable calculator required (TI-30XS recommended)

Grading Policy and Course Requirements

Assessment Components

The grading policy is structured to evaluate students through homework, quizzes, tests, and a comprehensive final exam. All assignments are completed online via MyMathLab, and strict deadlines are enforced.

• Homework: 15% (multiple attempts allowed, no late submissions)

• Weekly Quizzes: 15% (three attempts per quiz, highest score counted)

• Two Tests: 50% (25% each, proctored exams)

• Final Exam: 20% (comprehensive, may replace lowest test grade)

• Grade Scale: 90–100% = A; 80–89% = B; 70–79% = C; 60–69% = D; Below 60% = F

Student Learner Objectives

Key Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the course, students will be able to:

• Demonstrate understanding of properties of functions, including domain, range, operations, compositions, and inverses.

• Recognize and apply polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, and logarithmic functions, and solve related equations.

• Interpret and apply graphing techniques.

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

• Recognize, solve, and explain systems of linear equations using matrices.

List of Topics Covered

Major Topics and Sections

The following topics are included in the course curriculum:

• Solving linear equations and applying models

• Complex numbers

• Solving quadratic, rational, and radical equations

• Solving linear and compound inequalities

• Solving absolute value equations and inequalities

• Distance formula and circles

• Functions and their graphs

• Linear functions and slope

• Transformations of functions and graphing

• Combinations and compositions of functions

• Inverse functions

• Quadratic functions and graphing

• Polynomial functions and graphing

• Zeros of polynomial functions

• Rational functions and graphing

• Introduction to polynomial and rational inequalities

• Direct, inverse, and combined variation

• Exponential and logarithmic functions

• Properties of logarithms: solving exponential and logarithmic equations

• Applications with log and exponential functions

• Systems of linear and non-linear equations and matrices

• More on solutions of systems of linear equations

• Properties of matrices

• Introduction to sequences and series

Course Policies and Expectations

Attendance and Participation

Regular participation and attendance are essential. Students must attend live online lectures or watch recorded sessions. Assignments are due weekly, and failure to complete work will result in a lower participation grade.

• Absence is defined as not attending an online lecture or not watching the recorded session.

• Work ahead on assignments; extensions are not granted.

• Instructor is available for help by appointment via email.

Academic Support and Resources

University Support Services

Texas A&M University-San Antonio offers a variety of support services for students, including:

• Disability Support Services for reasonable accommodations

• Academic Learning Center for free tutoring

• Student Counseling Center for mental health support

• Jaguar Writing, Language, and Digital Composing Center for writing and language assistance

• Food pantry and CARE report for meeting basic needs

• Military Affairs for veterans and active-duty military personnel

• Religious Observances accommodations

• Six-Drop Rule for course withdrawals

• Statement of Harassment and Discrimination

• Pregnant/Parenting Student accommodations

Emergency Preparedness

JagE Alert System

In the event of an emergency, students, staff, and faculty can receive notifications via text message and email. Registration and updates are available online. The SafeZone App is recommended for emergencies.

Academic Integrity

Policy on Generative AI and Academic Misconduct

All work submitted must be generated by students themselves. Use of generative AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT) or hiring others to complete assignments is strictly prohibited and considered academic dishonesty. Students are expected to exhibit honesty and integrity in all academic pursuits.

Students’ Rights and Responsibilities

Summary of Rights and Responsibilities

• Right to participate in a free exchange of ideas

• Right to participate in all university activities free from discrimination

• Right to personal privacy

• Right to a fundamentally fair disciplinary process

• Responsibility to respect the rights and property of others

• Responsibility to comply with university rules and laws

• Responsibility to recognize the impact of actions on the university community

• Responsibility to check university email for updates

Summary Table: Course Grading Policy

Graded Element	Percentage	Notes
Homework	15%	Completed on MyMathLab, multiple attempts allowed
Weekly Quizzes	15%	Three attempts per quiz, highest score counted
Two Tests	50%	25% each, proctored exams
Final Exam	20%	Comprehensive, may replace lowest test grade

Additional Info

For detailed explanations of algebraic concepts, students should refer to the College Algebra textbook by Robert F. Blitzer and utilize MyMathLab resources, including video presentations and PowerPoint slides. The syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of course structure, expectations, and university resources, but does not include specific mathematical content or worked examples. For exam preparation, students should focus on the listed topics and objectives.