College Algebra Syllabus and Course Structure Study Guide

Course Overview

Introduction to College Algebra

This course, MATH 102: College Algebra, is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of fundamental algebraic concepts and their applications. The course emphasizes analytical thinking, problem-solving, and the use of mathematical models in real-life settings. It integrates a Biblical perspective and global context, highlighting mathematics as a universal language.

• Course Title: College Algebra

• Credit Hours: Standard undergraduate credit

• Course Location: Online

• Instructor: Dr. Suzette W. Meeks

• Required Textbook: Algebra & Trigonometry by Michael Sullivan, 12th Edition, Pearson Publishers

Course Description and Learning Outcomes

Key Topics Covered

The course covers a range of topics essential to College Algebra, including:

• Linear Equations

• Systems of Equations

• Inequalities

• Polynomials

• Rational Expressions

• Quadratic Functions

• Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

• Conic Sections

Emphasis is placed on understanding and applying these concepts in real-life settings.

Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs)

• CLO 1: Understand the concept of an unknown and its use in translating written language into symbolic mathematical models.

• CLO 2: Understand equality and inequality relations, and their symbolic forms.

• CLO 3: Understand the concept of a function and its graph, and recognize important properties of functions.

• CLO 4: Recognize and work with principal functions encountered in undergraduate mathematics, including polynomials, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions.

• CLO 5: Recognize and solve equations and systems of equations, both linear and nonlinear.

• CLO 6: Understand and use elementary matrix methods.

• CLO 7: Use appropriate technology for implementing solution techniques.

Course Structure and Schedule

Weekly Units and Assignments

The course is organized into weekly units, each focusing on specific textbook sections and associated assignments. Students are expected to devote approximately 14-17 hours per week to course activities, including reading, homework, discussions, and exams.

• Homework: Eight assignments, completed online via Pearson MyLab Math.

• Exams: Four comprehensive exams, each covering two units of material.

• Discussions: Five forums, with initial and follow-up posts.

• Introductory Post and Syllabus Quiz: Completed during the first week.

Sample Course Schedule

• Unit 1: Review of Algebra (Sections R1, R2, R4, R5, R7, R8)

• Unit 2: Equations & Inequalities (Sections R3, 2.1, 2.2, 1.1, 2.3, 2.4)

• Unit 3: Functions (Sections 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6)

• Unit 4: Graphs of Equations (Sections 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5)

• Unit 5: Polynomial and Rational Functions (Sections 4.1, 4.3, 5.1, 5.2, R.6, 5.6)

• Unit 6: Exponential & Logarithmic Functions (Sections 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 6.1, 6.2)

• Unit 7: Systems of Equations & Matrices (Sections 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6, 6.7, 6.8)

• Unit 8: Conic Sections, Sequences, Series, & Probability (Sections 12.1, 12.2, 12.4, 12.7, 12.8)

Additional info: The schedule aligns with standard College Algebra topics and provides a logical progression from foundational concepts to advanced applications.

Grading and Evaluation

Grading Components

Student performance is evaluated based on mastery of course content and quality of thought as expressed in homework, quizzes, exams, and participation.

Assignment	Weight
Homework (8 total)	48%
Exams (4 total)	40%
Discussions (5 total)	10%
Introduction Post	1%
Syllabus Quiz	1%
Total	100%

Grading Scale

Grade	Percentage	Quality Points	Meaning
A	93–100	4.00	Superior
A-	90–92	3.67
B+	87–89	3.33
B	83–86	3.00	Good
B-	80–82	2.67
C+	77–79	2.33
C	73–76	2.00	Satisfactory
C-	70–72	1.67
D+	67–69	1.33
D	63–66	1.00	Poor
D-	60–62	0.67
F	0–59	0.00	Failing

Course Policies and Procedures

Attendance and Participation

Regular attendance and active participation are essential for learning. Attendance is tracked weekly via Canvas, and participation is measured through discussion board activity and completion of online math assessments.

• Attendance: Defined as being present or engaging in academic activity in Canvas.

• Participation: Includes discussion posts, assignment completion, and interaction with course materials.

• Late Work: Penalties apply for late submissions; see course policy for details.

Academic Integrity

Regent University upholds high standards of academic integrity, grounded in Biblical, philosophical, and legal principles. Plagiarism prevention is supported by Turnitin™.

• Biblical Foundation: Honesty and respect for others' work.

• Philosophical Foundation: Diligence and moral uprightness.

• Legal Foundation: Compliance with copyright laws.

Accommodations and Support

Reasonable accommodations are provided for students with disabilities. Math support is available through Smarthinking and the Math Tutoring Lab.

• Disability Services: Contact the Disability Services Coordinator for assistance.

• Math Support: Online and in-person tutoring available.

Required and Supplemental Resources

Textbook and Technology

• Primary Text: Algebra & Trigonometry by Michael Sullivan, 12th Edition

• MyLab Math: Online homework and eBook access

• Calculator: Scientific or graphing calculator recommended (e.g., TI-84, Casio fx-300MS Plus)

Additional Resources

• Canvas: Course announcements, assignments, grades, and discussions

• University Library: Academic support and resources

• Writing Style: APA format required for papers and essays

Summary of College Algebra Topics

Core Topics and Their Relevance

• Review of Algebra: Fundamental operations, properties, and simplification techniques

• Equations & Inequalities: Solving linear, quadratic, and higher-order equations; understanding inequalities

• Graphs of Equations: Visual representation of algebraic relationships

• Functions: Definition, properties, and applications of functions

• Polynomial Functions: Structure, roots, and behavior of polynomials

• Rational Functions: Analysis of functions involving ratios of polynomials

• Exponential & Logarithmic Functions: Growth, decay, and logarithmic relationships

• Systems of Equations & Matrices: Solving multiple equations simultaneously; matrix methods

• Conic Sections: Study of circles, ellipses, parabolas, and hyperbolas

• Sequences, Series, & Probability: Introduction to discrete mathematics and probability concepts

Additional info: The syllabus provides a structured approach to mastering these topics, preparing students for further study in mathematics and related fields.

Example: Key Algebraic Concepts

Solving Linear Equations

Linear equations are fundamental to algebra and are used to model real-world situations.

• Definition: An equation of the form $ax + b = c$ where $a$, $b$, and $c$ are constants.

• Solution: Isolate the variable $x$ by performing inverse operations.

• Example: Solve $2x + 3 = 7$ $2x + 3 = 7$ $2x = 7 - 3$ $2x = 4$ $x = 2$

Quadratic Equations

Quadratic equations are equations of the form $ax^2 + bx + c = 0$.

• Solution Methods: Factoring, completing the square, or using the quadratic formula.

• Quadratic Formula: $x = \frac{-b \pm \sqrt{b^2 - 4ac}}{2a}$

• Example: Solve $x^2 - 5x + 6 = 0$ Factor: $(x - 2)(x - 3) = 0$ Solutions: $x = 2$, $x = 3$

Functions and Their Properties

A function is a relation that assigns each input exactly one output.

• Notation: $f(x)$ denotes the function value at $x$.

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

• Example: $f(x) = x^2$ Domain: All real numbers Range: All non-negative real numbers

Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

Exponential functions model growth and decay, while logarithmic functions are their inverses.

• Exponential Function: $f(x) = a^x$

• Logarithmic Function: $f(x) = \log_a(x)$

• Example: $f(x) = 2^x$; $f(x) = \log_2(x)$

Conclusion

This study guide summarizes the structure, policies, and core content of College Algebra as presented in the syllabus. Students are encouraged to engage actively with course materials, utilize available resources, and apply algebraic concepts to real-world problems.