COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This course is the first half of a standard one year course in elementary
algebra. Topics
to be covered include the concept of a variable; signed numbers ; evaluation of
(algebraic)
expressions; solution of equations and inequalities (in one variable); graphing;
and systems
of (linear) equations and inequalities.
Prerequisites: “C” or better in Math 22 or placement in Math 24
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
To become familiar with various Real number sets, including the Integers
and Rational numbers .
To acquire skill in solving first degree equations (and inequalities) in one
variable.
To acquire a basic understanding of linear equations (and inequalities) in
two variables , including their graphs.
To solve a system of linear equations by various methods.
To develop a basic ability to solve applications using the algebraic
techniques
covered throughout the course.
In addition, as in most mathematical courses, students will be presented
with the challenge of utilizing critical thinking along with development of
communicating analyses in an ordered and neat fashion.
INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS:
Textbook: Beginning Algebra - 7th Ed. by Aufmann, Barker & Lockwood
Calculators: A basic (inexpensive) calculator,
although a scientific
calculator will be noticeably more advantageous.
Recommended: Student Solutions Manual Graph paper
or engineering pad; A loose-leaf notebook for storing HomeWork, exams, and
notes.
Course Outline
Unit I. Pre-algebra Review (Chap.1) & Variable
Expressions (Chap.2)
Introduction to Integers; Operations with Integers ;
Rational Numbers;
Exponents and the Order of Operations; Concepts from Geometry;
Evaluating Variable Expressions; Simplifying Variable Expressions;
Translating Verbal Ex pressions into Variable Expressions.
Unit II. Solving Equations & Inequalities; Applications
(Chap.3 & 4.1-4.4)
Introduction to Equations; General Equations;
Inequalities; Transing
Sentences into Equations; Integer Problems; Geometry Problems;
Mark-up and Discount Problems.
Unit III. Linear Equations & Inequalities (Chap.5)
Rectangular Coordinate System; Graphs of Straight Lines;
Slope
of a Line; Equations of Lines; Functions; Linear Inequalities.
UNIT IV. Solving Systems of Linear Equations (Chap.6 &
4.5-4.7)
Solving by Graphing; Solving by the Substitution Method;
Solving
by the Elimination (a.k.a. Addition) Method; Applications.
UNIT V. Exponents, Roots & Radicals (Chap. 7.4 &
10.1-10.3)
Integer Exponents; Introduction to Radical Expressions &
Arithmetic
(Add, Subtract , Multiply & Divide ).
