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Intermediate Algebra Course Syllabus and Success Guide – Math C110

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Course Overview

This document outlines the syllabus and essential information for College Algebra for Non-STEM - Math C110 at Cerro Coso Community College. The course covers foundational and intermediate algebra topics, focusing on functions, equations, and their applications, as well as advanced topics such as conic sections and sequences.

Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

  • Synthesize results from the graphs and/or equations of functions.

  • Analyze and investigate properties of functions.

  • Solve and apply equations including rational, linear, absolute value, polynomial, exponential, and logarithmic equations.

  • Solve linear and nonlinear systems of equations and inequalities.

  • Apply functions and algebraic techniques to model real-world applications.

  • Advanced topics: Analyze conic sections and use sequences and series to solve applications.

Textbook and Materials

  • Text: Intermediate Algebra – 14th Edition; Lial, Hornsby, McGinnis, Daniels (ISBN-13: 9780138275624)

  • MyMathLab Access Code: Required for all assignments and course access.

  • Calculator: Scientific (e.g., TI-30XA) or graphing (e.g., TI-84) calculator recommended.

Course Structure and Topics

The course follows a logical progression through the main topics of intermediate algebra, as outlined below. Each week focuses on specific chapters and sections, with corresponding assignments and assessments.

Week

Main Topics

Assignments/Assessments

1

Linear Equations, Inequalities, and Applications

Canvas HW 1-1, Chapter 1 Lab, MyMathLab HW 1.1–1.7, Chapter 2 Lab, MyMathLab HW 2.1, Canvas HW 2-1, Check-In

2

Linear Equations, Graphs and Functions; Systems of Linear Equations

MyMathLab HW 2.2–2.6, Chapter 3 Lab, MyMathLab HW 3.1–3.3, Canvas HW 3-1, Exam 1 (Ch. 1–3)

3

Exponents, Polynomials and Polynomial Functions; Factoring

Chapter 4 Lab, MyMathLab HW 4.1–4.6, Chapter 5 Lab, MyMathLab HW 5.1–5.4, Canvas HW 5-1, Check-In

4

Rational Expressions and Functions

MyMathLab HW 5.5, Chapter 6 Lab, MyMathLab HW 6.1–6.6, Canvas HW 6-1, Exam 2 (Ch. 4–6)

5

Roots, Radicals and Root Functions

Chapter 7 Lab, MyMathLab HW 7.1–7.7, Canvas HW 7-1, Chapter 8 Lab, MyMathLab HW 8.1, Check-In

6

Quadratic Equations, Inequalities & Functions

MyMathLab HW 8.2–8.7, Chapter 9 Lab, MyMathLab HW 9.1–9.3

7

Inverse, Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

MyMathLab HW 9.4–9.6, Canvas HW 9-1, Exam 3 (Ch. 7–9), Chapter 10 Lab, MyMathLab HW 10.1–10.3

8

Nonlinear Functions, Conic Sections and Nonlinear Systems; Sequences and Series

MyMathLab HW 10.4–10.5, MyMathLab HW 11.1, Final Exam

Grading Breakdown

Component

Percent of Final Grade

MyMathLab Homework

20%

Canvas Homework

10%

Labs

5%

3 Exams

45%

Final Exam

20%

Letter Grades: A: 90–100%, B: 80–90%, C: 70–80%, D: 60–70%, F: 0–60%

Course Policies and Success Strategies

  • Attendance: Measured by assignment completion; inactivity may result in being dropped.

  • Participation: Complete at least two assignments every two weeks to remain active.

  • Homework: Assigned for each section; repeatable for full credit before deadline, 50% credit after deadline.

  • Exams: Three exams (one attempt each, 120 min limit), one make-up allowed, no retakes.

  • Final Exam: Comprehensive, during the last week.

  • Canvas & MyMathLab: All assignments, resources, and grades are managed online.

  • Pronto: Mandatory communication tool for class updates.

How to Succeed in This Class

  1. Learn: Read the textbook, attempt homework, review study plans and tutorials.

  2. Engage: Attend Zoom sessions and ask questions.

  3. Complete Assignments: Finish all MyMathLab and Canvas assignments.

  4. Assess: Take practice exams to check understanding.

  5. Perform: Take exams and the final for course credit.

Important Dates

  • First day to check in: 06/05/26

  • First week of class: 06/08/26

  • Last day to request refund: 06/11/26

  • Last day to drop without a “W”: 06/16/26

  • Juneteenth Holiday: 06/19/26

  • Independence Day Holiday: 07/04/26

  • Last day to drop with a “W”: 07/10/26

  • Semester ends: 07/31/26

Academic Integrity and Conduct

  • Cheating: Defined as any dishonest means to obtain academic credit. Results in a zero and reporting to administration.

  • AI Assistance: Permitted for brainstorming, but all submitted work must be your own.

  • Respectful Communication: Required in all online and email interactions.

Support and Accommodations

  • Technical Support: Pearson support via text, website, or agent.

  • Disability Services: Contact Access Programs Office for accommodations.

  • Financial Aid: Apply for FAFSA, CADAA, and scholarships; maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP).

Course Topics by Chapter

  • Ch. 1: Linear Equations, Inequalities, and Applications

  • Ch. 2: Linear Equations, Graphs, and Functions

  • Ch. 3: Systems of Linear Equations

  • Ch. 4: Exponents, Polynomials, and Polynomial Functions

  • Ch. 5: Factoring

  • Ch. 6: Rational Expressions and Functions

  • Ch. 7: Roots, Radicals, and Root Functions

  • Ch. 8: Quadratic Equations, Inequalities, and Functions

  • Ch. 9: Inverse, Exponential, and Logarithmic Functions

  • Ch. 10: Nonlinear Functions, Conic Sections, and Nonlinear Systems

  • Ch. 11.1: Sequences and Series (selected advanced topic)

Summary

This syllabus provides a comprehensive guide to the structure, expectations, and resources for success in Intermediate Algebra. Students are responsible for keeping up with assignments, participating actively, and adhering to all course and college policies.

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