Course Syllabus for Intermediate Algebra

II. Prerequisites

MAT 052 (or an appropriate score on OCC Mathematics Assessment Test) and MAT 053 (or geometry
proficiency). MAT 053 and MAT 120 may be taken concurrently.

III. Course Description

Course covers algebraic principles at in termediate level . Content includes real and complex numbers ,
exponents, polynomials, radicals; first- and second-degree equations; system of equations ; inequalities
and rational expressions . Note: MAT 120 will not be counted towards an A.A., A.S., A.S.E., A.F.A., or A.A.T.
degree, nor will most senior colleges or universities accept MAT 120 credits for transfer.

IV. Course Objectives

A. Demonstrate an understanding of the real numbers and their properties .
B. Extend the basic operations and factoring with polynomials.
C. Extend the basic operations of rational expressions.
D. Solve first and second degree equations and inequalities in one variable.
E. Perform the basic operations of complex numbers.
F. Demonstrate the ability to use the definitions and laws of exponents, roots and radicals .
G. Graph equations and inequalities in two variables .
H. Solve systems of equations and inequalities.
I. Demonstrate an understanding of functions.
J. Apply concepts and techniques to problem solving.

V. Academic Integrity

Students and employees at Oakton Community College are required to demonstrate academic integrity
and fol low Oakton ’s Code of Academic Conduct. This code prohibits:
• cheating,
• plagiarism (turning in work not written by you or lacking proper citation),
• falsification and fabrication (lying or distorting the truth),
• helping others to cheat,
• making unauthorized changes in official documents,
• pretending to be someone else or having someone else to pretend to be you,
•making or accepting bribes, special favors, or threats, and any other behavior that violates
academic integrity.

There are serious consequences to violations of the academic integrity policy. Oakton's policies and
procedures provide students with a fair hearing if a complaint is made. If you are found to have violated
the policy, the minimum penalty is failure on the as signment and a disciplinary record will be established
and kept on file in the office of the Vice President for Student Affairs for a period of 3 years. Details of the
Code of Academic Conduct can be found in the Student Handbook.

VI. Outline of Topics

A. Real Numbers
1. Properties
2. Operations
3. Real number system

B. Solving Equations and Inequalities in One Variable
1. Solving linear equations
2. Formulas
3. Solving linear inequalities
4. Compound inequalities
5. Absolute value equations and inequalities
6. Applications

C. Graphing Equations and Inequalities in Two Variables
1. Rectangular coordinate system
2. Distance, midpoint and slope formula
3. Graphing
4. Slope-intercept and point-slope formulas
5. Parallel and perpendicular lines
6. Graphing inequalities
7. Graphing circles with center at origin
8. Applications

D. Systems of Equations and Inequalities
1. Graphical solution
2. Algebraic solutions ( elimination and substitution )
3. Solution of systems with three variables
4. Nonlinear equations
5. Systems of inequalities
6. Applications

E. Polynomials
1. Basic operations
2. Long division and synthetic division
3. Special products
4. Factoring
5. Using factoring to solve equations
6. Applications

F. Rational Expressions
1. Simplifying
2. Basic operations
3. Complex rational expressions
4. Solving equations with rational expressions
5. Formulas
6. Variation
7. Applications

G. Exponents, Roots and Radicals
1. Laws of exponents
2. Scientific notation
3. Rational exponents
4. Simplifying radical expressions
5. Operations with radical expressions
6. Rationalizing denominators
7. Solving equations with radical expressions
8. Applications

H. Complex Numbers
1. Definition
2. Simplifying powers of i
3. Basic operations
I. Quadratic Equations and Inequalities
1. Solving by factoring
2. Solving by completing the square
3. Solving by use of quadratic formula
4. Formulas
5. Algebraic solutions of nonlinear systems
6. Solving nonlinear inequalities
7. Applications

J. Functions
1. Definition
2. Function notation
3. Graphing linear and quadratic functions
4. Applications

K. Suggested optional topics: exponential and logarithm functions and equations.

VII. Methods of Instruction

Lectures, discussion, and regularly assigned homework through text and online supplements.
Calculators will be used when appropriate.

VIII. Course Practices Required

It is highly recommended that one attends and participates in each and every class meeting. It is
recommended that all assigned work should be at least attempted, and at best be completely
understood. Active participation is encouraged for a better understanding of the class lectures.

XII. Course Schedule