College Algebra Syllabus and Course Structure Overview

Course Overview

Course Description

This College Algebra course (MATH-1314) is designed for STEM majors and centers on the concept of a function. The curriculum includes the definition and properties of functions, algebraic operations, graphing, and the study of polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Additional topics include systems of equations, matrices, determinants, sequences, and series.

• Textbook: College Algebra by Robert F. Blitzer (Pearson MyLab Access required)

• Calculator: Any scientific calculator (TI-30XS Multiview recommended; graphing calculators not allowed on exams)

Course Topics and Structure

Major Topics Covered

• Prerequisite Topics

• Equations and Inequalities

  • 1.6 Other Types of Equations

  • 3.6 Polynomial Inequalities (Quadratic only)

• Functions and Graphs

  • 2.1 Basics of Functions and their Graphs

  • 2.2 More on Functions and their Graphs

  • 2.3 Linear Functions and Slope

  • 2.5 Transformations of Functions

  • 2.6 Combinations of Functions; Composite Functions

  • 2.7 Inverse Functions

• Polynomial and Rational Functions

  • 3.1 Quadratic Functions

  • 3.2 Polynomial Functions and their Graphs

  • 3.3 Dividing Polynomials; Remainder and Factor Theorems

  • 3.4 Zeros of Polynomial Functions

  • 3.5 Rational Functions and their Graphs

• Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

  • 4.1 Exponential Functions

  • 4.2 Logarithmic Functions

  • 4.3 Properties of Logarithms

  • 4.4 Exponential and Logarithmic Equations

• Systems of Equations and Matrices

  • 5.1 Systems of Linear Equations in Two Variables

  • 6.3 Matrix Operations

  • 6.5 Determinants and Cramer's Rule

• Sequences and Series

  • 8.1 Sequences and Summation Notation

  • 8.2 Arithmetic Sequences

  • 8.3 Geometric Sequences

Course Requirements and Grading

Assignments and Exams

• Homework: Online via Pearson MyLab, with "soft" deadlines each Sunday at 11:59 PM. Lowest two homework scores are dropped.

• Exams: Four regular exams (majority free-response), plus a cumulative final exam (33 multiple-choice questions).

• Exam Policy: If homework average is at least 70%, the lowest regular exam grade may be replaced by the final exam grade (if beneficial).

Grade Distribution

Component	Weight
Homework	20%
Regular Exams	60%
Final Exam	20%

Percentage	Letter Grade	Grade Point
89.5% - 100%	A	4.0
79.5% - 89.49%	B	3.0
69.5% - 79.49%	C	2.0
59.5% - 69.49%	D	1.0
59.49% or lower	F	0.0

Course Policies and Support

Attendance

• Attendance is taken daily and may affect financial aid eligibility.

• Missing more than 15% of class meetings (5 days) without keeping up with assignments may result in being dropped from the course.

Academic Integrity

• Collaboration is allowed on homework but not on exams.

• Cheating on exams results in a zero and possible disciplinary action.

Student Support

• Free tutoring is available both in-person and virtually through TCC Math Tutoring Centers.

• Student Accessibility Resources (SAR) are available for students with documented disabilities.

• CARE Team provides support for students facing challenges with basic needs or well-being.

Key Dates

• Exam 1: Monday, February 9th

• Exam 2: Monday, March 2nd

• Exam 3: Monday, March 30th

• Exam 4: Monday, April 20th

• Final Exam: Monday, May 11th

• Last day to drop: April 30th

Additional Information

• Course communication is primarily through Canvas Announcements and email.

• Technical support is available via TCC's OneIT help desk.

• Students are encouraged to participate in course evaluations for continuous improvement.

Additional info: This syllabus provides a comprehensive overview of the course structure, requirements, and support resources. For detailed content on each mathematical topic, refer to the textbook chapters and Pearson MyLab assignments as outlined above.