Course Overview: College Algebra (MATH 1710K)

Quantitative Literacy and General Education

This course fulfills the True Blue Core (TBC) Quantitative Literacy requirement for students in catalogs 2024-2025 and beyond, and the general education mathematics requirement for earlier catalogs. Quantitative Literacy involves interpreting, representing, calculating, applying, and analyzing numerical data in various settings, as well as making and communicating assumptions based on quantitative information.

Course Description and Purpose

College Algebra (MATH 1710K) is designed to strengthen students' mathematical skills, focusing on modeling, problem solving, and critical thinking. The course covers foundational algebraic concepts and their applications, preparing students for further study and practical use in non-STEM contexts. The course also addresses deficiencies that may hinder successful completion.

• Graphing calculator required (TI-83/84 series recommended)

• Online assignments and e-textbook provided via Pearson’s MyLab Math

• Free in-person tutoring available for all prescribed and non-prescribed math courses

Course Structure and Topics

Chapters and Sections Covered

The course includes selected topics from the following chapters in College Algebra with Modeling & Visualization, 6th edition, by Rockswold:

• Chapter R: R.1, R.2, R.4, R.6, R.7 (Review topics: factoring, radicals, exponents)

• Chapter 1: 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4 (Introduction to functions and graphs)

• Chapter 2: 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5 (Linear functions and equations)

• Chapter 3: 3.1, 3.2, 3.4, 3.5 (Quadratic functions and equations)

• Chapter 4: 4.2, 4.6 (More nonlinear functions and equations)

• Chapter 5: 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4, 5.5, 5.6 (Exponential and logarithmic functions)

• Chapter 6: 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 6.6 (Systems of equations and inequalities)

• Chapter 8: 8.3, 8.6 (Further topics in algebra, including counting principles and probability)

Key Learning Outcomes

• Develop mathematical and problem-solving skills

• Apply algebraic methods to practical problems

• Use graphing calculators to explore algebraic concepts

• Understand functions from graphical, numeric, and symbolic perspectives

• Model real-world phenomena with polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions

• Solve systems of linear equations using various methods, including matrices

• Apply counting principles to compute probabilities

Course Requirements and Policies

Participation and Attendance

• Attendance is required at all class meetings

• Excused absences include university-sanctioned activities and military duties

• No makeup exams except with prior approval and documentation

• Lowest test grade may be replaced by the final exam score if higher

Grading and Evaluation

• Comprehensive departmental final exam: 20% of final grade

• Homework, quizzes, projects, and three chapter tests: 80% of final grade

Calculator Policy

• TI-83/84 series required; TI-89, TI-92, TI-Inspire CAS/CX CAS, and other CAS calculators are not allowed

• Calculator instruction will be specific to the TI-83/84 series

Academic Integrity

• Plagiarism, cheating, and fabrication are strictly prohibited

• All cases of academic misconduct will be reported and may result in failure for the assignment or course

Support Services

• Free math tutoring available in Rutledge Hall 102

• Disability accommodations provided through the Disability & Access Center

• Mental health resources and support available for students

Exam and Note Card Policy

• Final exam is closed book/notes, but one 8.5" x 11" sheet of notes is allowed (no pre-worked problems)

• For in-class exams, one 4x6" index card is allowed (definitions, calculator steps, non-numeric examples only)

Additional Information

• Students must bring required materials to the final exam (Scantron, calculator, pencil, note sheet)

• Withdrawal and drop policies are strictly enforced

• Cell phones and smart devices must be turned off during tests

• Inclement weather may result in remote instruction; check university email for updates

Contact and Resources

• Instructor: Dr. Teresa Schmidt

• Email: Teresa.Schmidt@mtsu.edu

• Office: Rutledge Hall 218

• Office Hours: MWF 8-10am, TR 12-2pm, or by appointment

• Math tutoring: Rutledge Hall 102, MTWR 9am-6pm, F 9am-2pm