MTH 160: Precalculus Algebra Syllabus and Course Overview

Course Overview

Introduction to Precalculus Algebra

MTH 160: Precalculus Algebra is a foundational college-level mathematics course designed to prepare students for calculus and other advanced mathematics courses. The course covers essential algebraic concepts, functions, equations, and their applications, with a focus on multiple representations and problem-solving skills relevant to science and business contexts.

Course Structure and Requirements

Course Delivery and Participation

• Format: Fully online and asynchronous; students must have access to a computer and stable internet.

• Proctored Exams: All exams are in-person; no virtual proctoring is allowed.

• Time Commitment: Students should expect to spend at least 9 hours per week on coursework, ideally distributed across several days.

Materials and Technology

• Textbook Access: Course materials are available through MyLab Math, with a free two-week trial.

• Calculator: A scientific calculator is required (graphing calculators and cell phone calculators are not permitted on exams).

• Technology: Desktop or laptop computer, internet access, and a scanning app for submitting assignments.

Course Content and Learning Outcomes

Main Topics Covered

• Theory of Equations

• Functions and Graphs (including parabolas, polynomials, rationals, exponentials, and logarithms)

• Systems of Equations and Inequalities

• Applications in science and business

General Education Course Learning Outcomes

• Use multiple representations (algebraic, graphic, numeric, verbal) of different function types to describe relationships between quantities.

• Describe rates of change of quantities in various representations.

• Investigate patterns and relationships in linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, rational, piecewise, and absolute value functions.

• Determine equations of lines from points, slopes, or proportional relationships.

• Interpret half-life and create decay models.

• Apply exponential growth models for populations and investments.

• Analyze graph symmetry and determine if functions are even or odd.

• Graph polynomial and rational functions, including identifying end behavior and asymptotes.

• Describe transformations of functions (shifts, stretches, compressions, reflections).

• Perform operations (including composition) with functions and describe domains.

• Determine if a function is one-to-one, find inverses, and describe domains and ranges.

• Solve quadratic, absolute value, polynomial, and rational inequalities.

• Perform operations with complex numbers.

• Apply properties of exponents and logarithms and their inverse relationship.

• Solve radical, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and quadratic equations using various methods (factoring, square root property, completing the square, quadratic formula).

• Simplify and factor expressions with rational exponents.

• Solve equations using rational exponents.

• Graph systems of inequalities.

• Find real and complex roots of polynomials using synthetic division and other techniques.

• Set up and solve systems of equations in two and three variables.

• Solve systems of non-linear equations.

• Simplify the difference quotient for various functions.

• Determine intervals where a function is increasing, decreasing, or constant.

• Solve problems using electronic/technological tools.

Assessment and Grading

Grading Policy

Letter Grade	Percentage Range
A	90-100%
B	80-89%
C	70-79%
D	60-69%
F	59% and below

Assessment Breakdown

Assessment Type	Weight	Description
Assignments	12%	MyLab Math assignments
Discussion	8%	Eight graded discussion activities
Quizzes	10%	Five module quizzes
Exams	50%	Three proctored exams
Final Exam	20%	Comprehensive proctored exam

Course Policies and Support

Attendance

• Attendance is tracked weekly by logging into MyLab Math and completing assignments.

• Failure to attend may affect financial aid eligibility.

Late Work and Missed Exams

• Homework submitted after the due date incurs a 15% penalty.

• Exams and discussion forums cannot be completed after their due dates.

Academic Integrity

• Cheating on exams results in a zero and possible further disciplinary action.

• Only scientific calculators are allowed during exams; no internet-connected devices.

Getting Help

• Math tutoring is available both in-person and virtually.

• Students are encouraged to use the "Ask My Instructor" feature in MyLab Math for homework questions.

• Discussion forums are required and contribute to the course grade.

Key Precalculus Topics (as described in the syllabus)

• Equations and Inequalities: Linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, absolute value, exponential, logarithmic, and radical equations and inequalities.

• Functions and Graphs: Definitions, domain and range, types of functions (linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, piecewise, absolute value), and their graphs.

• Transformations: Shifts, stretches, compressions, and reflections of functions.

• Operations with Functions: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, composition, and inverses.

• Systems of Equations: Solving systems in two and three variables, including non-linear systems.

• Complex Numbers: Operations and applications.

• Polynomial and Rational Functions: Graphing, end behavior, asymptotes, and finding roots.

• Exponential and Logarithmic Functions: Properties, applications, and solving related equations.

• Applications: Real-world problems from science and business, including growth and decay models.

Support Services and Policies

• Disability Resources: Academic accommodations are available for students with documented disabilities.

• Title IX: The college prohibits sex discrimination and provides resources for those impacted by sex-based harassment.

• Non-Discrimination: STLCC is committed to an inclusive and respectful learning environment.

Summary Table: Main Precalculus Topics in MTH 160

Topic	Description
Equations & Inequalities	Solving and analyzing various types of equations and inequalities
Functions & Graphs	Understanding, graphing, and transforming functions
Polynomial & Rational Functions	Graphing, finding roots, and analyzing asymptotes
Exponential & Logarithmic Functions	Properties, applications, and solving equations
Systems of Equations	Solving linear and non-linear systems
Complex Numbers	Operations and applications
Applications	Modeling real-world problems in science and business

Additional Info

• Students are encouraged to establish a consistent study routine and utilize all available resources, including office hours and tutoring.

• Formula sheets are provided during exams; students should familiarize themselves with these resources in advance.