MAT 171 Precalculus Algebra: Course Schedule and Structure Overview

Course Structure and Weekly Topics

This document outlines the weekly schedule, section coverage, and assignment due dates for MAT 171 Precalculus Algebra. The course is organized into sequential units, each covering foundational topics in algebra and precalculus, with regular homework and unit tests to assess understanding.

Unit and Section Organization

• Sections 1.1 – 1.6: Introduction to fundamental algebraic concepts, equations, and inequalities.

• Sections 2.1 – 2.5: Advanced equations, inequalities, and introduction to functions and their properties.

• Sections 3.1 – 3.5: Graphs, functions, and transformations.

• Sections 4.1 – 4.6: Polynomial and rational functions, including their graphs and applications.

• Sections 5.1 – 5.6: Exponential and logarithmic functions, their properties, and applications.

• Sections 9.1, 9.7: Introduction to trigonometric concepts (likely the unit circle and trigonometric functions).

Assessment Structure

• Homework Assignments: Each unit is divided into "A" and "B" homework sets, due at specified dates. All homework for a unit opens at the start of the unit and closes on the due date, allowing students to work ahead.

• Unit Tests: At the end of each unit, a test is administered to assess mastery of the covered sections.

Sample Weekly Breakdown

• Week of 5/31: Sections 1.1 – 1.6; Unit 1A HW due 6/6

• Week of 6/7: Sections 2.1, 3.5, 9.1, 9.7; Unit 1B HW due 6/11; Unit 1 Test on 6/12

• Week of 6/14: Sections 2.2 – 2.5; Unit 2A HW due 6/20

• Week of 6/21: Sections 3.1 – 3.3; Unit 2B HW due 6/25; Unit 2 Test on 6/26

• Week of 6/28: Sections 3.4, 4.1 – 4.4; Unit 3A HW due 7/4

• Week of 7/5: Sections 4.5 – 4.6; Unit 3B HW due 7/9; Unit 3 Test on 7/10

• Week of 7/12: Sections 5.1 – 5.4; Unit 4A HW due 7/18

• Week of 7/19: Sections 5.5 – 5.6; Unit 4B HW due 7/23; Unit 4 Test on 7/24

Key Course Policies

• Assignment Flexibility: Students may work ahead in each unit as all homework opens at the start of the unit.

• Schedule Changes: All dates are subject to change based on class needs.

Additional Info

• This schedule aligns with standard precalculus topics, including algebraic fundamentals, equations and inequalities, functions and their graphs, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and an introduction to trigonometric concepts.

• Students are expected to use Canvas and MyMathLab (MML) for assignments and course materials.