Intermediate Algebra

Course Number:
MTH 95
Transcript Title:
Intermediate Algebra
Created:
Aug 15, 2022
Updated:
Jul 12, 2023
Total Credits:
4
Lecture Hours:
30
Lecture / Lab Hours:
20
Lab Hours:
0
Satisfies Cultural Literacy requirement:
No
Satisfies General Education requirement:
No
Grading Options
A-F, P/NP, Audit
Default Grading Options
A-F
Repeats available for credit:
0
Prerequisites

MTH 65 or equivalent placement; placement into WR 115

Course Description

Introduces functions graphically and symbolically with an emphasis on function notation. Investigates functions, equations, and graphs involving linear, quadratic, rational, radical, and absolute value expressions. Integrates technology throughout. Graphing technology required – contact instructor for more details. Prerequisites: MTH 65 or equivalent placement; placement into WR 115. Audit available.

Course Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Formulate and solve problems in one variable using quadratic, rational and radical equations as models.
  2. Formulate and solve problems in one or more variables using linear models.
  3. Recognize the connection between graphs and algebra and solve problems both symbolically and graphically.
  4. Recognize the graph of a function and use function notation.
  5. Communicate results mathematically and in writing.

Suggested Outcome Assessment Strategies

Instructors will use a variety of the following measures:

  • Homework, quizzes, group activities, problem sets
  • Exams, which may include: proctored, take-home, open-book, group, cumulative.
  • Projects, portfolios, and field work - individual or group

Course Activities and Design

The determination of teaching strategies used in the delivery of outcomes is generally left to the discretion of the instructor. Here are some strategies that you might consider when designing your course: lecture, small group/forum discussion, flipped classroom, dyads, oral presentation, role play, simulation scenarios, group projects, service learning projects, hands-on lab, peer review/workshops, cooperative learning (jigsaw, fishbowl), inquiry based instruction, differentiated instruction (learning centers), graphic organizers, etc.

Course Content

Outcome #1: Formulate and solve problems in one variable using quadratic, rational and radical equations as models.

  • Guide students through skills needed in working with one variable functions in order to solve real life problems.
    • Arithmetic operations with one variable functions
    • Examine the relationship between quadratics and polynomials and solve problems involving quadratics
    • Linear functions and slope (focused on applications)
    • Radicals, radical functions, and rational exponents

Outcome #2: Formulate and solve problems in one or more variables using linear models.

  • Guide students through skills needed in working with one or more variable functions in order to solve real life problems.
    • Systems of linear equations
    • Applications
    • Characterizing infinite solutions
    • Systems of linear inequalities
    • Compound inequalities

Outcome #3: Recognize the connection between graphs and algebra and solve problems both symbolically and graphically.

  • Guide students through skills needed in working through problems involving graphs and algebra.
    • Graphing using different strategies
      • Slope/intercept
      • Factoring
      • Quadratic functions and their graphs

Outcome #4: Recognize the graph of a function and use function notation.

  • Guide students through skills needed in working with functions and function notation
    • Introduction of functions
    • The algebra of functions
    • Compositions and inverses of functions
    • Identify what makes a graph a function

Outcome #5: Communicate results mathematically and in writing

  • Help students find the connection between words and mathematical notationin order to communicate what has been solved. (or done)
    • Function notation
    • Interval notation
    • Set notation
    • Other Appropriate mathematical symbols/notation

Suggested Texts and Materials

  • Intermediate Algebra for College Students, 5th ed. Blitzer
  • Graphing calculator or technology such as Desmos is helpful

Department Notes

Word problems are to be answered using complete sentences and include appropriate units.