Course Syllabus for College Algebra
REQUIRED MATERIALS (CHECK WITH BOOKSTORE FOR LATEST
EDITION):
Click on the bookstore for the campus which you are attending each class.
Pemberton Campus Bookstore
Mt Laurel Campus Bookstore
INTENDED COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES/COURSE GOALS /CORE
COMPETENCIES/:
1. Determine the slope of a line and sue the slope to write and graph linear
equations.
2. Evaluate functions and find their domains.
3. Identify and graph shifts, reflections and non-rigid transformations of
functions.
4. Find arithmetic combinations and compositions of functions.
5. Find inverse functions graphically and algebraically.
6. Solve and apply linear equations including those involving fractions.
7. Calculate graphically intercepts, zeros, and solutions of equations.
8. Perform operations with complex numbers and plot complex number in the
complex
plane.
9. Solve quadratic equations, polynomial equations, and equations involving
absolute
values, polynomial inequalities, and rational inequalities.
10. Analyze and sketch graphs of quadratic and polynomial functions.
11. Use long division and synthetic division to divide polynomials by other
polynomials.
12. Determine the numbers of rational and real zeros of polynomial functions and
find the
zeros.
13. Determine the domains, find the asymptotes and sketch the graphs of rational
functions.
14. Evaluate and graph exponential and logarithmic functions.
15. Rewrite logarithmic functions with different bases.
16. Use properties of logarithms to evaluate, rewrite, expand or condense
logarithmic
expressions.
17. Solve exponential and logarithmic equations.
GENERAL EDUCATION GOALS INTRODUCED/REINFORCED IN THIS
COURSE:
2. a. Students will translate quantifiable problems into mathematical terms
and solve
these problems using mathematical or statistical operations.
b. Students will construct graphs and charts, interpret them, and draw
appropriate
conclusions.
TOPICAL OUTLINE FOR THE COURSE:
Functions and their Graphs
Review Graphs of Equations and Lines in the Plane
Functions
Graphs of Functions
Shifting, Reflecting, and Stretching Graphs
Combinations of Functions
Inverse Functions
Solving Equations and Inequalities
Linear Equations and Problem Solving
Solving Equations Graphically
Complex Numbers
Solving Equations Algebraically
Solving Inequalities Algebraically and Graphically
Polynomial and Rational Functions
Review Quadratic Functions
Polynomial Functions of Higher Degree
Real Zeros of Polynomial Functions
The Fundamental Theorem of Algebra
Rational Functions and Asymptotes
Graphs of Rational Functions
Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
Exponential Functions and their Graphs
Logarithmic Functions and their Graphs
Properties of Logarithms
Solving Exponential and Logarithmic Equations
Course Activities:
Course activities vary from course to
course and instructor to instructor. Below is
a listing of some of the activities students can anticipate in this course:
Writing assignments:
students will analyze current issues in the field using
current articles from the popular press as well as library research including
electronic resources databases.
Speaking assignments:
students will present research individually or in groups
using current technology to support the presentation (e.g., PowerPoint
presentation); students will participate in discussions and debates related to
the
topics in the lessons. Discussions may also focus on cross-cultural and
legalethical
dilemmas as they relate to the course content.
Simulation activities:
Trends and issues will analyzed for their ethical as well as
social or legal significance. Students might role-play common situations for
classmates to analyze. Current news articles may be used to generate discussion.
Case Studies: Complex
situations and scenarios will be analyzed in cooperative
group settings or as homework assignments.
Lectures: This format
will include question and answer sessions to provide
interactivity between students and instructor.
Speakers:
Representatives from various related fields may be invited to speak.
Videos: Related topics
will provide impetus for discussion.
Student Evaluation:
The student will be evaluated on the degree to which student learning
outcomes are
achieved. A variety of methods may be used such as tests, quizzes, class
participation,
projects, homework assignments, presentations, etc.
See individual instructor’s course handouts for grading
system and criteria (point value
for each assessment component in course, e.g. tests, papers, presentations,
attendance
etc.), number of papers and examinations required in the course, and testing
policy
including make ups and/or retests.
GRADING STANDARD:
A Mastery of essential elements and related concepts, plus demonstrated
excellence
or originality.
B+ Mastery of essential elements and related concepts, showing higher level
understanding.
B Mastery of essential elements and related concepts.
C+ Above average knowledge of essential elements and related concepts.
C Acceptable knowledge of essential elements and related concepts.
D Minimal knowledge of related concepts.
F Unsatisfactory progress. This grade may also be assigned in cases of academic
misconduct, such as cheating or plagiarism, and/or excessive absences.
For other grades, see the current BCC catalog.
COLLEGE POLICIES:
The current college catalog and student handbook are
important documents for
understanding your rights and responsibilities as a student in the BCC
classroom. Please
read your catalog and handbook as they supplement this syllabus, particularly
for
information regarding:
Academic Integrity
Code
Student Conduct Code
Student Grade Appeal Process
NOTIFICATION FOR STUDENTS WITH DISABILITIES:
Burlington County College offers reasonable accommodations and/or services
to persons
with disabilities. The Special Populations Department offers comprehensive
services to
all students with any form of disability (with appropriate documentation) which
hinders
their academic success.