Housatonic Community College

College Algebra Fall 2016

MAT*172 Mon/Wed Marina Philips

Text:College Algebra by Carl Stitz and Jeff Zeager (optional)

Online resources :

Course ID: 13728

-Etext book

-Videos

-Online Homework

Catalog Description: This course offers the development of numeric, algebraic, and graphic problem solving techniques beyond the intermediate level. Techniques are developed to solve equations and inequalities involving polynomials, radicals and rational expressions. Polynomial, inverse, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions are studied and their applications are explored both algebraically and graphically.

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Course Objectives:

1. Analyze functions and their graphs using the language and symbolism of algebra.

2. Utilize various problem-solving strategies/techniques to set up and solve real world problems.

3. Communicate effectively through use of accurate mathematical terminology and notation.

4. Use technology as a tool to explore, enhance understanding, and solve applications.

5. Master concepts and skills necessary to be successful in subsequent mathematics courses.

Grading Policy:

  1. Attendance and class participation
  2. Completion of homework assignments online 5%
  3. Quizzes 15%
  4. Five tests. 50%
  5. Cumulative Final Exam 30%

Course Outline:See next page

Office: B235

Telephone:(203) 332 5289

Office Hours:Mon Wed : 9:30 – 10:30am,

Mon Wed: 2:30 – 3:30 pm(tutoring center)

Tue Thurs: 8:30 – 9:20 am

Email :

Final Exam: Wednesday, December 14th 2016 10:30 – 12:30pm

Course Content:

Chapter 1: Relations and Functions

Sec 1.3 Introduction to functions

Sec 1.4 Function Notation

Sec 1.5 Function Arithmetic

Sec 1.6 Graphs of Functions

Sec 1.7 Transformations

Chapter 2: Linear and Quadratic Functions

Sec 2.1 Linear functions

Sec 2.2 Absolute Value functions

Sec 2.3 Quadratic Functions

Sec 2.4 Inequalities with Absolute value and Quadratic Functions

Sec 2.5 Regression

Chapter 3: Polynomial Functions

Sec 3.1 Graphs of Polynomial Functions

Sec 3.2 The Factor Theorem and Remainder Theorem

Sec 3.3 Zeroes of Polynomials

Sec 3.4 Complex Zeroes and Fundamental Theorem of Algebra

Chapter 4: Rational Functions

Sec 4.1 Introduction to Rational Functions

Sec 4.2 Graphs of Rational Functions

Sec 4.3 Rational Inequalities and Applications

Chapter 5: Farther Topics in Functions

Sec 5.1 Function Composition

Sec 5.2 Inverse Functions

Chapter 6: Exponential and Logarithmic functions

Sec 6.1 Introduction to Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

Sec 6.2 Properties of logarithms

Sec 6.3 Exponential Equations

Class Expectations and Requirements:

This is a fast paced class as there is a lot of material to cover. If you miss even one day of class, you must make up all that you missed before coming back to the next class period. We will be using MyOpenMaththis semester. This is an online course management system. You need to go online, and register as a student. Create a user name and password.

Enroll into my class:

Course ID:13728

  1. You are required to have a calculator in class all the time. It is good to have a TI83.
  2. You must be comfortable working with fractions and decimals.
  3. Don’t be late to class, as you will miss the homework reviews.
  4. You can make-up tests within one week of when the test was given, provided you bring documentation for your absence.
  5. You can replace your lowest test grade with your final exam grade.
  6. There will be a test after each chapter.
  7. All Cell Phones must be turned off during class.
  8. All this information can also be found on MyCommnet Blackboard
  9. Check it regularly for changes.