Syllabus Overview: MTH 100 Intermediate College Algebra

Course Overview

This syllabus outlines the structure, objectives, and requirements for MTH 100 Intermediate College Algebra at Northwest Shoals Community College. The course covers foundational algebraic concepts, including equations, inequalities, polynomials, rational expressions, and functions, preparing students for further study in mathematics.

Course Description

• Focus: Study of algebraic concepts such as exponents, polynomial expressions, rational expressions, linear and quadratic equations, and graphing.

• Goal: Prepare students for precalculus or technical mathematics courses.

Prerequisites

• Grade of C or higher in MTH 098 or appropriate placement score.

Required Materials

• Online access to MyMathLab for Algebra Foundations.

• Scientific calculator (no graphing calculators allowed).

Course Objectives

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

• Simplify algebraic expressions and polynomials.

• Solve linear, quadratic, and rational equations and inequalities.

• Graph linear and quadratic equations.

• Apply algebraic methods to real-world problems.

Module Breakdown

Module 1: Fundamental Operations

• Perform operations with real numbers.

• Apply order of operations.

• Evaluate algebraic expressions.

Module 2: Linear Equations and Inequalities

• Solve linear equations and inequalities.

• Graph linear equations and inequalities on the coordinate plane.

• Interpret slope and intercepts.

Module 3: Polynomials

• Add, subtract, multiply, and factor polynomials.

• Apply the zero-product property to solve equations.

Module 4: Rational Expressions and Equations

• Simplify rational expressions.

• Solve equations involving rational expressions.

• Identify excluded values from rational expressions.

Module 5: Quadratic Equations

• Solve quadratic equations using factoring, the quadratic formula, and completing the square.

• Graph quadratic functions.

Module 6: Functions

• Define and evaluate functions.

• Interpret function notation.

• Graph basic functions and identify their properties.

Assessment and Grading

Component	Weight
Participation	10%
Homework	15%
Quizzes	20%
Midterm Exam	20%
Final Exam	35%

Grading Scale:

Grade	Score Range
A	90–100
B	80–89
C	70–79
D	60–69
F	0–59

Participation and Homework

• Weekly classwork and assignments are required.

• Homework is completed online via MyMathLab.

• Attendance and timely submission are essential for success.

Quizzes, Midterm, and Final Exam

• Quizzes are taken online after completing homework for each module.

• Midterm and final exams are proctored and comprehensive.

Policies

• Academic honesty is strictly enforced.

• Make-up exams require prior approval and documentation.

• Free tutoring is available through Student Support Services.

Additional Information

• ADA accommodations are available for eligible students.

• Withdrawal policies and procedures are outlined by the college.