College Algebra

Course Number:
MTH 111
Transcript Title:
College Algebra
Created:
Aug 15, 2022
Updated:
Aug 15, 2022
Total Credits:
4
Lecture Hours:
30
Lecture / Lab Hours:
20
Lab Hours:
0
Satisfies Cultural Literacy requirement:
No
Satisfies General Education requirement:
Yes
Grading Options
A-F, P/NP, Audit
Default Grading Options
A-F
Repeats available for credit:
0
Prerequisites

MTH 95 or equivalent placement

Course Description

Explores relations and functions graphically, numerically, symbolically, and verbally. Examines exponential, logarithmic, power, polynomial, and rational functions.  Investigates applications from a variety of perspectives. Prerequisite: MTH 95 or equivalent placement. Prerequisite/concurrent: WR 121. Audit available.

Course Outcomes

Upon successful completion students should be able to:

  1. Model non-trivial, real world phenomena using multiple mathematical approaches and to interpret results.
  2. Demonstrate mastery of exponential, logarithmic, polynomial, power, and rational functions.
  3. Accurately compute results using the technology, algebra, and functions.
  4. Communicate results mathematically and in writing.

Alignment with Institutional Learning Outcomes

Major
1. Communicate effectively using appropriate reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. (Communication)
Major
2. Creatively solve problems by using relevant methods of research, personal reflection, reasoning, and evaluation of information. (Critical thinking and Problem-Solving)
Major
3. Extract, interpret, evaluate, communicate, and apply quantitative information and methods to solve problems, evaluate claims, and support decisions in their academic, professional and private lives. (Quantitative Literacy)
Not Addressed
4. Use an understanding of cultural differences to constructively address issues that arise in the workplace and community. (Cultural Awareness)
Minor
5. Recognize the consequences of human activity upon our social and natural world. (Community and Environmental Responsibility)

To establish an intentional learning environment, Institutional Learning Outcomes (ILOs) require a clear definition of instructional strategies, evidence of recurrent instruction, and employment of several assessment modes.

Major Designation

  1. The outcome is addressed recurrently in the curriculum, regularly enough to establish a thorough understanding.
  2. Students can demonstrate and are assessed on a thorough understanding of the outcome.
    • The course includes at least one assignment that can be assessed by applying the appropriate CLO rubric.

Minor Designation

  1. The outcome is addressed adequately in the curriculum, establishing fundamental understanding.
  2. Students can demonstrate and are assessed on a fundamental understanding of the outcome.
    • The course includes at least one assignment that can be assessed by applying the appropriate CLO rubric.

Suggested Outcome Assessment Strategies

At least one project plus some combination of the following:

  • Class participation
  • Group projects
  • Presentations
  • Portfolios
  • Research papers
  • Homework assignments
  • Written paper
  • Quizzes
  • Exams
  • Other assessments of the instructors choosing 

Course Content

Outcome #1: Model non-trivial, real world phenomena using multiple mathematical approaches and to interpret results.
  • Exponential growth, decay functions and their equations
    • Percentage growth/decay
    • Continuous growth/decay
    • Compounding interest
  • Linear applications
  • Population growth
  • Graphing functions
    • Appropriate axis labeling
  • Composition of functions
  • Inverse of functions
  • Rate of change for any given function
    • Given two points
    • Given the interval
    • Given a graph
Outcome #2: Demonstrate mastery of exponential, logarithmic, polynomial, power, and rational functions.
  • Create appropriate mathematical models given 2 points
    • Recognize when different functions are being asked for, exponential vs linear
  • Create appropriate mathematical models (equations) given a graph
  • Describe the various features of the function
    • Domain
    • Range
    • Inflections
    • Concavity
    • Increase/decrease
Outcome #3: Accurately compute results using the technology, algebra, and functions.
  • Construct and interpret graphical displays using technology.
  • Constructing and interpreting meaningful labels
  • Find the reasonable domain and range based on the problem.
Outcome #4: Communicate results mathematically and in writing
  • Interval notation
  • Set notation
  • Appropriate function notation

Suggested Texts and Materials

Lippman, D.  & Rasmussen,M. Precalculus 1: An Investigation of Functions, Edition 2.2. The text is open source and available online at: https://www.opentextbookstore.com/precalc/2.2/Precalc1.pdf

Department Notes

Word problems are to be answered using complete sentences and include appropriate units.