Northeastern State University

College of Mathematics, Science and Nursing

Department of Mathematics

Syllabus for Math 1513 College Algebra

PREREQUISITES: A mathematics ACT score of 19 or above OR a score of 75 or above on CPT OR a grade of C or better in Math 0133 OR a score of 15 or higher on BAT.

CATALOG DESCRIPTION OF COURSE: Linear and quadratic equations and inequalities; relations, functions, inverse functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; systems of equations; zeros of polynomials and determinants; permutations, combinations and the binomial theorem, as well as other selected topics.

COURSE PURPOSE: This course provides the mathematical development of the concept of a function, examines the basic types of functions ( linear, quadratic, polynomial, exponential , logarithmic) and provides examples from a wide variety of applications ranging from business to the social sciences as well as in education and the natural sciences. The universal usefulness of this concept in most fields of study is why College Algebra is a required course for most majors.

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

  • Communicate with appropriate mathematical symbols.
  • Solve equations and inequalities of the following types: linear, quadratic, absolute value, radical, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, containing 2 or 3 variables.
  • Define a function, identify and graph the various types of functions and perform algebraic operations on functions.
  • Model and solve real-world problems using linear, quadratic, polynomial, rational exponential and logarithmic functions.
  • Analyze how changing the parameters of functions affects the graphs of functions.
  • Convert between algebraic and graphical representations of rational, radical, absolute value, exponential and logarithmic relations.
  • Compute efficiently using the appropriate method - calculator, paper/pencil algorithms, or mental calculation

 

INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS: (Required Textbook) Algebra by Mark Dugopolski, Addison Wesley Publishing 2003 (3rd Edition).

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

College Algebra

I. Introduction to Functions and Graphs

  • Numbers, Data, and Problem Solving
  • Visualization of Data
  • Functions and their Representations
  • Types of Functions and their Rates of Change

II. Linear Functions and Equations

  • Linear Functions and Models
  • Equations of Lines
  • Linear Equations



  • Linear Inequalities
  • Piecewise-Defined Linear Runctions
  • Linear Approximation
  • Quadratic Functions and Equations
  • Quadratic Functions and Models
  • Quadratic Equations and Problem Solving
  • Quadratic Inequalities
  • Transformations of Graphs

IV. Nonlinear Functions and Equations

  • Nonlinear Functions and their Graphs
  • Polynomial Functions and Models
  • Real Zeros of Polynomial Functions
  • The Fundamental Theorem of Algebra
  • Polynomial and Rational Inequalities
  • Power Function and Radical Equations

V. Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

  • Combining Functions
  • Inverse Functions and Their Representations
  • Exponential Functions and their Models
  • Logarithmic Functions and their Models
  • Properties of Logarithms
  • Exponential and Logarithmic Equations
  • Constructing Nonlinear Models

 

VI. Systems of Equations and Inequalities

  • Functions and Equations of Two Variables
  • Linear Systems of Equations and Inequalities in Two Variables

ADA COMPLIANCE:If any member of the class feels that he/she has a disability and needs special accommodations, please advise the instructor of such disability at the first class attended.

INCLEMENT WEATHER / DISASTER POLICY:

The following are basic premises for the inclement weather policy at Northeastern State University:

1. Classes are expected to be held if at all possible.

2. It is the student's responsibility to receive the information when weather is questionable.

3. Neither students nor faculty are expected to risk life or limb.

4. Faculty members are obligated to hold classes if the University is not closed, unless the faculty member is unable to get to campus.

Policy: During times of inclement weather, decisions concerning day classes will be made by 6:00 a.m. in order for the media to be notified and for students to receive the announcement before they leave home. Decisions concerning night classes will be made by 3:00 p.m.

The following media will be notified regarding closing of the campus:

Radio Stations: Television Stations:

KRMG 740 AM Tulsa KJRH Channel 2 Tulsa

KAYI 107 FM Tulsa KOTV Channel 6 Tulsa

KTLQ 1350 AM Tahlequah KTUL Channel 8 Tulsa

KEOK 102 FM Tahlequah KFSM Channel 5 Fort Smith

KBIX 1490 AM Muskogee Cable Channel 96 Tahlequah

KMMY 97 FM Muskogee

KVOO 1170 AM Tulsa

The automated attendant message on 918-456-5511 will be modified to include information concerning campus operations during inclement weather.