MTH 161 – Precalculus I Syllabus and Course Structure Overview

Course Overview

Course Description

MTH 161 – Precalculus I is designed to prepare students for further studies in statistics, applied calculus, or calculus with analytic geometry. The course focuses on developing competencies in algebra and functions, which are foundational for advanced mathematics courses.

• Topics Covered: Power, polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions, as well as systems of equations and inequalities.

• Credits: 3

• Prerequisite: MDE 60 or direct placement.

• Textbook: Precalculus Enhanced with Graphing Utilities, 11th edition, by Sullivan/Sullivan.

• Calculator Requirement: TI-83, TI-83 Plus, or TI-84 Plus.

Course Structure and Resources

• Class Meetings: In-person, twice weekly.

• Homework: Assigned and submitted via MyLab Math, with automatic grade synchronization to Canvas. Six lowest homework scores are dropped; late work is penalized 20% per day (up to 5 days late).

• Quizzes and Exams: Administered in class; no late quizzes or exams (except one make-up test allowed).

• Project: Group-based, requiring a written submission and a 15-minute presentation.

• Final Exam: Comprehensive and cannot be taken early or late.

Grading Policy

Grade Components

• Homework (27 assignments): 200 points

• Quizzes (6): 180 points

• Tests (4): 400 points (one make-up allowed)

• Project: 70 points

• Final Exam: 150 points

Grading Scale

Final grades are determined on a straight 10-point percentage scale, as shown below:

Grade	Percent
A	90-100
B	80-89
C	70-79
D	60-69
F	0-59

Course Policies and Support

• Attendance: All meetings, exams, and office hours are in person.

• Homework Collaboration: Students are encouraged to work together outside of class.

• Help Sessions: Open Help Sessions and instructor office hours are available for additional support.

• Academic Integrity: Each group member must report their contribution to the group project.

Additional Information

• All course materials are provided digitally through Canvas and MyLab Math.

• Students should check Canvas Announcements for updates and instructions.

• See the official course content summary for detailed topic coverage.