Towson University MATH 102: Intermediate Algebra Syllabus and Course Overview

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Course Overview

Introduction to MATH 102: Intermediate Algebra

MATH 102 at Towson University is designed for students who require algebraic skills for future mathematics courses. The course covers foundational and intermediate algebra topics, preparing students for more advanced studies in mathematics.

Prerequisite: Required for students planning to take MATH 115 or MATH 119.
Textbook: Elementary and Intermediate Algebra, 4th edition by Sullivan and Sullivan (Pearson MyMathLab Math access required).
Calculator: TI-83 or TI-84 graphing calculator recommended (TI-89, TI-Inspire, and computer-based calculators not permitted on exams).

Course Content and Topics

Major Topics Covered

The course content aligns with standard Beginning and Intermediate Algebra curricula. The following topics are included:

Factoring of Polynomials
Rational Expressions and Equations
Graphs, Relations, and Functions
Radicals and Exponents
Quadratic Functions

These topics correspond to the following chapters:

Ch. 5 - Exponents and Polynomials
Ch. 6 - Factoring Polynomials
Ch. 7 - Rational Expressions and Equations
Ch. 8 - Graphs, Relations, and Functions
Ch. 9 - Radicals and Rational Exponents
Ch. 10 - Quadratic Equations and Functions

Test Topics Breakdown

Test 1: Review topics, prime and composite numbers, order of operations, exponents, integers, factoring, solving equations, simplifying and factoring polynomials, simplifying radicals.
Test 2: Evaluating functions, graphing by plotting points, linear equations, domain and range, graphing definitions, main function properties, transformations, increasing/decreasing/constant intervals, maximum or minimum values.
Test 3: Transformations, graphing quadratic functions, solving quadratic equations, finding maximum and minimum of quadratic equations, solving quadratic inequalities.

Course Structure and Evaluation

Grading Components

The final grade is determined by a combination of homework, quizzes, tests, and a cumulative final exam. The breakdown is as follows:

Component	Percentage
Written Homework	10%
Online Homework	7%
Quizzes/Classwork/Attendance	15%
Test 1 – Review Topics	16%
Test 2 – Relations and Functions	16%
Test 3 – Transformation and Quadratic Functions	16%
Cumulative Final Exam	20%

Grading Scale

Grade	Overall Average
A	>=93%
A-	>=90% and <93%
B+	>=87% and <90%
B	>=83% and <87%
B-	>=80% and <83%
C+	>=77% and <80%
C	>=70% and <77%
D+	>=67% and <70%
D	>=60% and <67%
F	<60%

Assignments and Exams

Written Homework: Assigned for each test, completed in a required homework packet.
Online Homework: Assigned for each textbook section via Pearson MyMathLab, with multiple attempts allowed.
Quizzes: Approximately 8 in-class quizzes (lowest dropped), plus a take-home quiz on graphing and an additional quiz at instructor's discretion.
Tests: Three in-class tests covering major course topics.
Final Exam: Cumulative, scheduled according to the university exam calendar.

Course Policies and Support

Attendance and Absence Policy

Regular attendance is expected; students are responsible for obtaining missed information.
Excusable absences include illness, wellness day, religious observance, university activities, or compelling circumstances.
Unexcused absences result in a grade of zero for missed assessments.
Make-up tests are allowed for excused absences and must be completed within one week.

Academic Integrity

Exams and quizzes must be completed individually, using only approved calculators and writing instruments.
Use of generative AI or unauthorized devices is strictly prohibited.
Collaboration is allowed on homework, but each student must submit their own work.

Support Resources

Tutoring: Available at the Tutoring and Learning Center (TLC) and Spence Tutoring Lab.
Math 102S Support Course: Optional one-credit companion course for additional support, including opportunities for test retakes with remediation.

Important Dates

First day of classes: Monday, August 24
Last day to drop without a "W": Tuesday, September 1
Labor Day (no classes): Monday, September 7
Fall Break: Friday, October 23
Thanksgiving Holiday: November 25-29
Last day to withdraw with a "W": Monday, November 2
Last day of regular classes: Monday, December 7
Final Exam: As per university schedule

Additional Policies

Technology: Cellphones and wearable technology must be powered off and stored during class and assessments.
Disability Services: Students needing accommodations should register with Accessibility and Disability Services (ADS).
Title IX and Reporting: Resources and reporting procedures are available for sexual misconduct, hate crimes, and bias incidents.
Classroom Climate: The university promotes a respectful and inclusive learning environment.

Summary Table: Major Algebra Topics in MATH 102

Topic	Description
Factoring Polynomials	Breaking down polynomials into products of simpler polynomials.
Rational Expressions	Expressions involving ratios of polynomials; includes simplification and solving equations.
Graphs, Relations, and Functions	Understanding and plotting functions, domains, ranges, and key properties.
Radicals and Exponents	Working with roots and powers, including simplification and operations.
Quadratic Functions	Graphing, solving, and analyzing quadratic equations and their properties.

Key Study Recommendations

Read the textbook before lectures and review notes regularly.
Practice problems beyond assigned homework to ensure mastery.
Utilize tutoring resources and consider enrolling in the Math 102S support course if additional help is needed.
Stay informed about course announcements via Blackboard and university email.