Northeastern State University

College of Mathematic, Science and Nursing

Department of Mathematics

Syllabus for Math 0133 Intermediate AlgebraPREREQUISITES: A score between 9 and 14 on the BAT mathematics placement test or a score between 44 and 74 on the CPT placement test.

CATALOG DESCRIPTION OF COURSE: A course for students that need to review their algebra or need to satisfy a high school deficiency. Included in the course is a brief review of topics from Elementary Algebra, radicals, rational exponents, factoring, rational expressions, linear equations, and inequalities, absolute value, complex numbers, and quadratic equations. High school deficiency in mathematics may be satisfied by the successful completion of this course. No college credit.

COURSE PURPOSE: This course has been designated as a course for students needing to review basic algebra concepts. It is an overview of radicals, rational exponents, factoring, rational expressions, linear equations and inequalities, absolute value, complex numbers, quadratic equations, and applications.

EXPECTED COURSE OUTCOMES: The student will be expected to achieve the following objectives:

• Recognize and generate equivalent forms for simple algebraic expressions and solve linear equations

• Examine mathematical relationships using inequalities

• Use tables and graphs as tools to interpret expressions and inequalities

• Compare and contrast the properties of numbers and number systems

• Understand the meaning and effects of operations on rational and real numbers

• Use factors, multiples, prime factorization, and relatively prime numbers to solve problems

• Understand complex numbers as solutions to quadratic equations

• Employ squaring and finding square roots to simplify computations and solve problems

• Understand and use ratios and proportions to represent quantitative relationships

• Recognize and create shapes that are congruent and similar

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: (Required Textbook)

Gustafson, David R. and Peter D. Frisk. Beginning and Intermediate Algebra, An Integrated Approach (3rd edition). Pacific Grove, California: Brooks and Cole Publishing Company, 2002.

INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURES: The expected course outcomes will be realized through a variety of instructional strategies. Those strategies include, but are not limited to, the following: lecture, expository-discussion, demonstration, inquiry, and group activities. The instructor also will integrate appropriate multi-media technology.

Intermediate Algebra

I. Equations and Inequalities

• Simplifying Expressions to Solve Equations

• Solving Inequalities

II. Graphing and Solving Systems of Equations and Inequalities

• The Rectangular Coordinate System

• Graphing Linear Equations

• Solving Systems of Equations by Graphing

III. Polynomials

• Multiplying Polynomials

• Dividing Polynomials by Monomials

• Dividing Polynomials by Polynomials

Major Examination #1

IV. Factoring Polynomials

• Factoring Out the Greatest Common Factor

• Factoring by Grouping

• Factoring the Difference of Two Squares

• Factoring Trinomials with Lead Coefficients of 1

• Factoring General Trinomials

• Summary of Factoring Techniques

• Problem Solving

Major Examination #2

V. Proportion and Rational Expressions

• Ratios

• Proportions and Similar Triangles

• Simplifying Fractions

• Multiplying and Dividing Fractions

• Adding and Subtraction Fractions

• Complex Fractions

• Solving Equations That Contain Fractions

• Applications of Equations That Contain Fractions

Major Examination #3

VI. Rational Exponents and Radicals

• Radical Expressions

• Applications of Radical

• Radical Equations

• Rational Exponents

• Simplifying and Combining Radical Expressions

• Multiplying and Dividing Radical Expressions

Major Examination #4

Final Examination

STUDENT PERFORMANCE ACTIVITIES: (Attendance/Punctuality)

Regular class attendance is required. Failure to regularly attend any zero level course may result in an Administrative Withdrawal (AW) from the course. This AW may affect your eligibility for financial aid, athletics and veterans benefits. Consult your instructor or the NSU catalog for the complete AW Policy.