Skip to main content
Indietro

Precalculus Syllabus and Course Structure: Math 121 (Fall 2026)

NotePraticaVideolezioni

Guida di studio - Note intelligenti

Appunti personalizzati basati sui tuoi materiali, ampliati con definizioni chiave, esempi e contesto.

Course Overview

This document outlines the structure, policies, and weekly topics for Math 121: Precalculus at UIC for Fall 2026. The course is designed to prepare students for calculus by covering foundational topics in functions, algebra, trigonometry, and analytic geometry.

Course Description

  • Topics Covered: Properties and graphs of functions (polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, trigonometric, and inverse trigonometric functions), solving equations, trigonometric identities, applications of trigonometric functions, and polar coordinates.

  • Primary Goal: Equip students with concepts and skills necessary for success in calculus.

  • Prerequisites: Grade of C or better in MATH 110 or appropriate placement test score.

Course Structure and Grading

Assessment Components

  • Online Homework (MyLab): 18.44% of final grade. Unlimited attempts, due Mondays and Fridays.

  • Group Quizzes (Tuesdays): 4.74% (best 9 of 11 scores counted).

  • Individual Quizzes (Thursdays): 10.91% (best 9 of 11 scores counted).

  • Attendance: 7.43% (points awarded for presence in lectures and discussions).

  • Midterm Exams (3): Each worth 12.64% (individual and group portions).

  • Final Exam: 20.55% (cumulative, in-person, 2 hours, includes trig identity sheet).

Grading Scale

Points

Percentage

Grade

1651+

87%+

A

1424+

75%+

B

1139+

60%+

C

854+

45%+

D

<854

<45%

F

Note: The lowest midterm exam score (as a percentage) may be replaced by the final exam percentage if the final is higher.

Attendance and Participation

  • Mandatory for all lectures and discussions.

  • Attendance tracked via Acadly app; students are responsible for ensuring their attendance is recorded.

  • No excused/unexcused absences; only absences. Points only awarded for presence.

Makeup and Drop Policies

  • Lowest two group and two individual quiz scores are dropped to accommodate emergencies.

  • Makeups for exams require prior approval; no makeups for group exam portions.

  • Missed exams may have the final exam percentage substituted.

Course Materials

  • Textbook: Precalculus, 12th Edition by Michael Sullivan (Pearson/MyLab access required).

  • Guided Lecture Sheets: Provided in the Course Workbook and online; students are expected to complete all questions.

  • Discussion Sheets: Used in group and individual quizzes during discussion sessions.

Weekly Calendar of Topics

The following is a summary of the weekly topics, mapped to standard precalculus chapters:

Week/Date

Topic

Section(s)

Start

Course Policies, Syllabus Quiz

-

Week 1

Functions, Domain and Range

2.1

Week 1-2

Graphical Properties of Functions

2.2, 2.3

Week 2

Algebra of Functions (Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, Division, Composition)

2.1, 5.1

Week 2

Average Rate of Change

2.3

Week 3

Polynomial Functions

4.1, 4.2

Week 3

Right Triangle Trigonometry

8.1

Week 3

Angle Measure, Trig Functions of Angles

6.1, 8.1

Week 4

Exponential Functions

5.3

Week 4

The Unit Circle, Trig Functions

6.2

Week 5

Transformations of Functions

2.5

Week 5

Inverses of Functions

5.2

Week 5-6

Logarithmic Functions and Laws

5.4, 5.5

Week 6

Rational Functions and Their Graphs

3.6

Week 7

Graphs of Sine and Cosine

6.4

Week 7

Verifying Trig Identities

7.4

Week 8

Inverse Trig Functions and Their Graphs

7.1

Week 8-9

Trig Identities: Addition, Subtraction, Double Angle

7.5, 7.6

Week 9

Solving Exponential, Logarithmic, and Trig Equations

5.6, 7.3

Week 10

Law of Sines and Cosines

8.2, 8.3

Week 10

Polar Coordinates and Graphs of Polar Equations

9.1, 9.2

Note: The schedule is tentative and may be adjusted as needed.

Key Precalculus Topics (as per Syllabus)

  • Functions and Their Graphs: Understanding domain, range, and types of functions.

  • Polynomial and Rational Functions: Analyzing behavior, zeros, and asymptotes.

  • Exponential and Logarithmic Functions: Properties, laws, and solving equations.

  • Trigonometric Functions: Definitions, unit circle, graphs, and identities.

  • Analytic Trigonometry: Proving identities, solving equations, and using laws of sines and cosines.

  • Polar Coordinates: Converting between polar and rectangular forms, graphing polar equations.

Course Policies and Student Support

  • Academic Integrity: No use of notes, calculators, or electronic devices on exams/quizzes. Violations result in severe penalties.

  • Accommodations: Students with disabilities should contact the Disability Resource Center for support and accommodations.

  • Student Wellness: Multiple resources are available for academic, financial, and personal support.

  • Classroom Conduct: Respectful, inclusive, and civil discourse is expected at all times.

Tips for Success

  • Participate actively in lectures and discussions.

  • Complete all homework and guided lecture sheets independently.

  • Form study groups and collaborate on discussion worksheets.

  • Seek help early from instructors, TAs, or campus resources if struggling.

  • Stay current with assignments and avoid procrastination.

Contact Information

  • Coordinator: Dr. Billy Jackson (SEO 315, bjjack06@uic.edu)

  • Instructors: Olga Kashcheyeva, Victor Protsak (see syllabus for office locations and emails)

  • TAs and LAs: Multiple teaching assistants and learning assistants are available for support.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always consult the course's Canvas site and weekly content folder.

Pearson Logo

Study Prep