Syllabus and Study Guide: Math 0955 – Beginning Algebra (Cuyahoga Community College)

Course Overview

Introduction to Math 0955 – Beginning Algebra

This course provides foundational knowledge in algebra, focusing on the development of basic algebraic skills and concepts. It is designed for students preparing for college-level mathematics and covers a range of topics including equations, inequalities, graphing, and polynomial operations.

• Instructor: Kristin Egan

• Format: Fully online/asynchronous

• Credit Hours: 6

• Prerequisites: Math 0910 Basic Arithmetic and Pre-Algebra, or placement test

• Required Materials: e-Textbook, MyLab Math access, scientific calculator

Course Topics

Key Algebraic Concepts

The course covers the following main topics, each essential for building algebraic proficiency:

• Solving One Variable Linear Equations: Techniques for isolating variables and finding solutions.

• Linear Inequalities: Methods for solving and graphing inequalities on a number line.

• Graphing Linear Equations and Inequalities: Plotting lines and regions in the coordinate plane.

• Operations with Polynomials: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of polynomials.

• Factoring Polynomials: Breaking down polynomials into products of simpler polynomials.

• Rational Expressions: Simplifying, multiplying, and dividing rational expressions.

• Functions: Understanding the definition, evaluation, and graphing of functions.

• Exponents: Laws of exponents and their application in simplifying expressions.

• Rectangular Coordinate System: Plotting points, interpreting graphs, and understanding the relationship between algebraic and graphical representations.

Course Outcomes and Objectives

Learning Goals

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

• Outcome A: Simplify basic algebraic expressions in one variable.

• Outcome B: Solve linear equations and linear inequalities in one variable.

• Outcome C: Define, determine, and perform operations on simple functions.

• Outcome D: Identify the equations of the rectangular coordinate system, determine the equations of lines, and graph lines and inequalities.

• Outcome E: Solve systems of linear equations and inequalities in two variables.

• Outcome F: Simplify, evaluate, and perform operations on polynomials and involving exponents.

Required Text and Supplies

• Textbook: Bittinger, Robert. Introductory and Intermediate Algebra for College Students, 6th Edition, Pearson, 2021 (e-Text available via MyLab).

• Calculator: Scientific calculator (e.g., TI-30X).

Assignments and Assessments

Homework and Practice

• Homework: Assigned for every section in the course (28 assignments), completed via MyLab.

• Study Plan Exercises (Optional): Practice exercises for additional skill-building.

• Practice Exams: Available before each major exam, worth 25 points each.

Quizzes and Exams

• Quizzes: Weekly, due Sundays at 11:59pm. Two lowest scores dropped. Three attempts per quiz.

• Exams: Two major exams (Midterm and Final), proctored online. Each covers multiple chapters.

Grading Policy

Grading Scale

Grades are based on a total of 600 points, distributed as follows:

Points	Grade	Percentage
540 – 600	A	90 – 100%
480 – 539	B	80 – 89%
420 – 479	C	70 – 79%
360 – 419	D	60 – 69%
0 – 359	F	0 – 59%

• Tests: 250 points total (42% of course grade)

• Quizzes: 200 points total (33% of course grade)

• MyLab Assignments: 100 points total (17% of course grade)

• Practice Tests: 50 points total (8% of course grade)

Academic Credit and Expectations

• One semester hour of credit is awarded for each lecture hour.

• Students should expect to spend 3 hours per week per credit hour on coursework.

• Time management and regular participation are essential for success in this online course.

Technology and Support

• Online Platforms: Brightspace, MyLab, WebEx

• Technical Support: 24/7 Customer Care, campus Technology Learning Centers

• Minimum Technology Requirements: Computer with internet access, ability to use required software

Course Policies

Communication and Conduct

• Use Tri-C email for all official communication.

• Follow etiquette guidelines for online communication (politeness, proper capitalization, academic tone).

• Academic honesty and adherence to the Student Handbook are required.

Make-up Work and Incompletes

• No make-ups for assignments except for the two exams (open and available from the first day of the course).

• Incompletes are granted only under specific circumstances as outlined in the Student Handbook.

Supplemental Help

• Free tutoring available at Technology Learning Centers and online (Brainfuse).

• Additional resources: Tri-C’s Online College Catalog, Student Handbook, and technical support links.

Key Formulas and Concepts (Sample)

• Linear Equation (one variable): $ax + b = 0$

• Slope of a Line: $m = \frac{y_2 - y_1}{x_2 - x_1}$

• Point-Slope Form: $y - y_1 = m(x - x_1)$

• Standard Form of a Line: $Ax + By = C$

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

• Exponent Rules: $a^m \cdot a^n = a^{m+n}$ $(a^m)^n = a^{mn}$ $a^0 = 1$ (for $a \neq 0$)

Example: Solving a Linear Equation

Problem: Solve $2x + 5 = 13$

• Subtract 5 from both sides: $2x = 8$

• Divide both sides by 2: $x = 4$

Additional info:

• This syllabus is for a developmental algebra course, which is a prerequisite for College Algebra. The content is foundational and directly relevant for students preparing for College Algebra.