Departmental Course Syllabus for Intermediate Algebra

I. Catalog Description:
This course includes solving quadratic equations by various methods, quadratic and rational inequalities, the Cartesian plane, graphs and equations of linear and conical relations, systems of linear equations in two and three variables, systems of nonlinear equations in two variables, introduction to relations and functions, and related applications.

II. Pre-requisites, co-requisites and other requirements:
Math 0302 with a grade of “C” or better, or equivalent. Course placement advisement is available-contact Mathematics/Computer Science Office located at MCCH 221.

III. Text: Elementary & Intermediate Algebra for College Students, 2^nd ed., 2004 by Allen R. Angel, Pearson

IV. Instruction will consist of: lecture, homework assignments, classroom discussions, other

V. Course Content: Upon successful completion of this course the student will have demonstrated an understanding of the material contained in the following list of topics:

Chapter 8 Quadratic Equations and Inequalities

8.1 Solving Quadratic Equations by Completing the Square
8.2 Solving Quadratic Equations by the Quadratic Formula
8.3 Quadratic Equations: Applications & Problem Solving
8.4 Factoring Expressions & Solving Equations that are Quadratic in Form
8.5 Quadratic and Other Inequalities in One Variable

Chapter 9 Graphing Linear Equations and Inequalities

9.1 The Cartesian Coordinate System and Linear Equations in Two Variables
9.2 Graphing Linear Equations
9.3 Slope of a Line
9.4 Slope-Intercept and Point-Slope Forms of a Linear Equation
9.5 Graphing Linear Inequalities

Chapter 10 Functions and Their Graphs

10.1 Functions
10.2 Linear Functions
10.3 Slope, Modeling, and Linear Relationships
10.4 Graphing Quadratic Functions
10.5 Other Functions and Reflections
10.6 Compressions and Stretches and More on Translations of Functions
10.7 The Algebra of Functions
10.8 Variation

Chapter 11 Conic Sections

11.1 The Parabola and the Circle

Chapter 12 Systems of Linear Equations and Inequalities

12.1 Solving Systems of Equations Graphically
12.2 Solving Systems of Equations by Substitution
12.3 Solving Systems of Equations by the Addition Method
12.4 Solving Systems of Linear Equations in Three Variables
12.5 Systems of Linear Equations: Applications and Problem Solving
12.6 Solving Systems of Linear Inequalities

Chapter 13 Exponential and Logarithmic Functions (Optional)

VII. Course requirements and grade computation.

A. College Requirements:

A written, comprehensive final examination, not to exceed two and one-half hours in length, shall be given at the end of each semester for each course at the regularly scheduled time. Any exceptions to these requirements must be approved by the appropriate dean. Other examinations are given at the discretion of the instructor.

A student who must be absent from a final examination should petition that instructor for permission to postpone the examination. A student absent without permission from a final examination is graded “F.” Postponed examinations result in a grade of “I.” The final exam must be taken within 120 calendar days from the end of the semester or the grade automatically becomes an “F.” (San Antonio College Bulletin, Faculty Handbook - January 1995)

B. Departmental Requirement:

A valid student I.D. and current semester registration in a departmental course is
required to use departmental learning resources (computers, tutoring, videos, testing).
Schedules and additional rules for use are posted periodically.

C. Instructor Requirements:

(1) Homework: The homework for all material covered in a given class week will be due at the first lecture period following that class week. If you are absent, it is due at the next class that you attend. To be graded, the homework sections must be turned in together (e.g. Homework for Sections 8.4 and 8.5 is due on Jan 27^th). For each section assignment, do every other odd numbered problem in the “Practice the Skills” and “Problem Solving” exercises (i.e. 13, 17, 21, etc for Sec 8.1) and all the odd numbered problems in the “Challenge Problems” exercise. All work must be shown for credit. If, after completing a section, you are not yet comfortable with the problems, you may complete more odd numbered problems for additional credit. It is very important for you to do the assigned homework. If you are able to understand and do it, you should have no trouble passing the course. You should ensure that it is neat and legible and you may use the homework to study for tests or the final exam. Please ensure that all problems are numbered and the answer to each one is circled.

(2) Tests: Occasional quizzes will be given through the semester. Quiz grades will be included with homework grades. There will be five tests given during the semester. The first four tests will cover Chapters 8, 9, 10 & 11, and 12 respectively. The fifth will be the final exam. On each exam, a grade of zero will be given if it is missed without prior notification or there is no bona fide emergency. There will be No make-up tests.

(3) Computation of Course Grade

(a)
Homework/Quizzes ......... 18%
Test 1 ................................. 15%
Test 2 ................................. 15%
Test 3 ................................. 15%
Test 4 ................................. 15%
Final Exam ......................... 22%
100%

(b) Course Grade:

90 - 100 A
80 - 89 B
70 - 79 C
60 - 69 D
Below 60 F

Additional information is available on my web page. Learning outcomes, performance objectives and measurements and College Policies are included in the class handout shown there. It is in PDF format and can be downloaded if you need a replacement for this copy