MATH 128 - College Algebra

Credit Hours: 3
Lecture Hours: 3 or 4
Laboratory (or Other) Hours: 0

General Education Code(s): 23MA
Prerequisite(s): Permission of the instructor required for extended contact hour sections
Corequisite(s): None
Restriction(s): None

This course begins with a review of Elementary Algebra topics: fractions, order of operations, exponents and polynomials, one-variable linear equations. The central theme of the course is a study of functions, using both graphic and algebraic methods. The functions we will focus on are: linear (with slope studied as a rate of change), quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic. “Real world” applications of these functions are considered. Students are expected to use a scientific calculator for all aspects of the course. Other technology may be incorporated at the instructor’s discretion.

Student Learning Outcomes of the Course: The General Education requirement for Mathematics and Quantitative Reasoning is satisfied by MATH 128. To meet this General Education requirement, students will be able to demonstrate mathematical skills and quantitative reasoning, including the ability to:

interpret and draw inferences from appropriate mathematical models such as formulas, graphs, tables, or schematics;
represent mathematical information symbolically, visually, numerically, or verbally as appropriate; and
employ quantitative methods such as arithmetic, algebra, geometry, or statistics to solve problems.

COURSE-SPECIFIC LEARNING OUTCOMES FOR MATH 128:

Students will be able to solve linear, quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic equations in one variable.
Students will be able to classify linear, quadratic, exponential and logarithmic functions from their formulas and from their graphs.
Students will be able to predict the behavior of linear, quadratic, exponential and logarithmic functions (such as increasing/decreasing, intercepts, etc.) based on their parameters.
Students will be able to solve a system of equations in two or three variables using the addition/elimination method.
Students will be able to apply linear, quadratic, exponential and logarithmic functions and systems of equations in “real world” situations.

Repeatable: No