Access Code: RVAE4-EGKVN Financial Aid Code: 6A9DB-DEE3B-74F

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1 MATH College Algebra Location: MAGC Meeting day(s): TR 7:45a 9:00a, Instructor Information Name: Virgil Pierce Phone: Teaching Assistant Name: Indalecio Soto Office Hours: W 12p 1p Tutoring Hours: MW 9a 11a, T 10a 1a, F 9a 1a Office Number: MAGC Tutoring Room: MAGC Office Location: MAGC Office Hours: TR 9:00a 10:00a Textbook/Aleks: College Algebra by M. Dugopolski 5th ed. This textbook is merely for reference. It is not needed, or recommended. We will instead be using primarily the online Aleks systems. If you have questions, please see the instructor. Aleks is an interactive assessment based program. Calculator/Computer Access Code: RVAE4-EGKVN Financial Aid Code: 6A9DB-DEE3B-74F An inexpensive scientific calculator is required. It is permissible to use a graphing calculator, but not required). Each student will use their own personal calculator while taking tests. You will not be allowed to share calculators nor use cell phone calculators. The course will use the Aleks online homework program. This is an interactive program which gives you homework questions based on its assessment of your current understanding/skill. You will need to purchase an account, you can use the system for two weeks before purchasing it. You can also purchase an access code for the system from the university bookstore. The system will be used for Homework and Quizzes. While we will be using Aleks in class, much of your work in it will be done outside of class. You will need access to a computer connected to the internet. 1

2 Course Pre-requisites: MATH 1334 with a grade of C or better, or ACT math score 20 or better, or THEA math score 260 or better, or ACCUPLACER College Level Mathematics part score 70 or better. It is your responsibility to be sure you have satisfied these requirements. Topics: Topics include nonlinear and absolute value inequalities, functions, complex numbers, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, systems of linear and nonlinear equations, and matrices. Core Curriculum Student Learning Outcomes, Texas Coordinating Board Exemplary Learning Objectives: 2 (1) To apply arithmetic, algebraic, geometric, higher-order thinking, and statistical methods to modeling and solving real-world situations. (2) To represent and evaluate basic mathematical information verbally, numerically, graphically, and symbolically. (3) To expand mathematical reasoning skills and formal logic to develop convincing mathematical arguments. (4) To use appropriate technology to enhance mathematical thinking and understanding and to solve mathematical problems and judge the reasonableness of the results. (5) To interpret mathematical models such as formulas, graphs, tables and schematics, and draw inferences from them. (6) To recognize the limitations of mathematical and statistical models. (7) To develop the view that mathematics is an evolving discipline, interrelated with human culture, and understand its connections to other disciplines. Student Learning Outcomes: After successfully completing this course you will be able to (1) Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the mathematical characterization of relationships (functions, equations, and inequalities included) and how mathematics provides structures for critical thinking, disciplined inquiry and the formulation of discoveries and applications to real-world situations. (2) Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the mathematical concept of function, the essentials regarding their domains, correspondences, and ranges; and how to perform addition, subtraction multiplication, division, composition, and inversion of functions which are basic operations in the algebra of functions. (3) Demonstrate facility with multiple representations of algebraic relationships by coordinating the use of formulas, graphs, tables, verbal descriptions, and appropriate technology, noting interconnections and providing translations between these different modes of representation.

3 (4) Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of relationships expressed through systems of equations and inequalities, and an assortment of functions - linear and nonlinear, absolute value, greatest integer, exponential, logarithmic, polynomial, and rational - which are essential for mathematical modeling and problem solving in realworld situations, (5) Demonstrate an understanding of complex numbers and how they extend the real number system to provide roots for certain types of equations, and that they constitute the highest order characterization for the concept of number with the system of complex numbers including within it all of the other subsystems of numbers - real, rational, integers, whole numbers and natural numbers. (6) Demonstrate an understanding of the strengths and limitations of mathematically expressed models (e.g., simple and compound interest, law of gravity). (7) Demonstrate an appreciation of the contributions of mathematics to exceptional accomplishments in the sciences and humanities. Grades Will be based on the following scheme: 10 percent of your score will be based on weekly progress in Aleks, 10 percent of your score will be based on in-class quizzes, 40 percent of your score will be based on your work, both in class and homework, ultimately completed in Aleks and 40 percent will be based on the common final exam. Furthermore to achieve a passing grade in the class you will be required to answer more than half of the final exam questions correctly. Attendance Attendance is expected, there will be a substantial amount of in-class assignments which will form the basis for your final grade. Failure to attend the course will adversly affect your grade, and you will find little sympathy from your instructor. You will be treated with the respect due any adult in this course; you will be expected to treat your fellow students, the equipment in the room, and the professor with respect. Tardiness in particular will not be tolerated. You will be in class, logged into your computer when it is time for us to start. Homework Homework is a vital component of this course. Assignments will be given in the Aleks system. This is special to this section, if you have objections please see the instructor about your options; but be advised, if you stay in this section you are required to use the Aleks system. Tests We will not have tests in the traditional sense in this class. You will use the Aleks system to track your performance in the class. 10 percent of your grade is maintaining pace with the class in the system, and classroom activities will match this pace. There will be examples provided of the type of questions you can expect on the final exam. 3

4 4 Policies: University Drop Deadline is November 12. Makeup Exams will only be given for documented illnesses and emergencies. It is imperative that you contact me, except in rare cases, before the exam begins. Be aware: The state of Texas imposes penalties to students who drop to many classes (loss of financial aid, and a limit of 6 drops in Texas higher education). Please keep these in mind, and apply yourself to the course accordingly; if you are in a position to consider dropping the class check with your advisor and the University about the consequences first. It is assumed that you have read the Student Handbook, in particular the section on plagiarism and cheating. You are permitted to work together to solve the homework problems and when asked to do so in class but all work on tests must be done by you. No cooperation of any sort is permitted on exams. Students with disabilities are encouraged to contact the Disability Services Office for a confidential discussion of their individual needs for academic accommodation. It is the policy of the University of Texas-Pan American to provide flexible and individualized accommodation to students with documented disabilities that may affect their ability to fully participate in course activities or to meet course requirements. To receive accommodation services, students must be registered with the Disability Services office (DS), University Center UC 108 (on the first floor), , disabilityservices@utpa.edu. The Director of Disabilities is Christine Stuart- Carruthers, , carruthers@utpa.edu. If your disability might affect your ability to use the Aleks system, please see me and the office of disability services as soon as possible to discuss how we can accomodate you. University policy is that all comunication between an instructor and student must happen through the UTPA servers. Conact me at piercevu@utpa.edu via your broncs account. On the other hand: if you need help in the evenings, I can often be found on google talk, virgilpierce@gmail.com. I cannot discuss grades, your student id number, or other protected information on google.

5 Course Name: MATH Course Code: RVAE4-EGKVN ALEKS Course: College Algebra Instructor: Dr. Pierce Course Dates: Begin: 08/27/2012 End: 12/09/2012 Course Content: 160 topics Textbook: Dugopolski: College Algebra, 5th Ed. (Pearson Addison Wesley) Chapter P - Prerequisites (3 topics, no due date) Section P.2 (1 topic) Evaluating expressions with exponents of zero Section P.4 (1 topic) Polynomial long division: Problem type 1 Section P.6 (1 topic) Domain of a rational function Chapter 1 - Equations, Inequalities, and Modeling (47 topics, no due date) Section 1.1 (2 topics) Solving a linear equation with several occurrences of the variable: Variables on both sides and fractional coefficients Solving a rational equation that simplifies to a linear equation: Problem type 1 Section 1.2 (2 topics) Algebraic symbol manipulation: Problem type 1 Finding the perimeter or area of a rectangle given one of these values Section 1.3 (6 topics) Graphing a line given its equation in slope-intercept form Graphing a line given its equation in standard form Graphing a vertical or horizontal line Finding x- and y-intercepts of a line given the equation: Advanced Midpoint of a line segment in the plane Distance between two points in the plane Section 1.4 (11 topics) Graphing a line through a given point with a given slope Finding slope given the graph of a line on a grid Finding slope given two points on the line Finding the slope of a line given its equation Writing an equation of a line given the y-intercept and another point Writing the equation of a line given the slope and a point on the line Writing the equation of the line through two given points Writing the equations of vertical and horizontal lines through a given point Application problem with a linear function: Problem type 1 Application problem with a linear function: Problem type 2 Slopes of parallel and perpendicular lines: Problem type 1 Copyright 2012 UC Regents and ALEKS Corporation. ALEKS is a registered trademark of ALEKS Corporation. P. 1/5

6 Section 1.6 (16 topics) Pythagorean Theorem Finding the roots of a quadratic equation with leading coefficient 1 Finding the roots of a quadratic equation with leading coefficient greater than 1 Solving a quadratic equation needing simplification Solving a rational equation that simplifies to a quadratic equation: Problem type 1 Solving a rational equation that simplifies to a quadratic equation: Problem type 2 Solving a quadratic equation using the square root property: Problem type 1 Solving a quadratic equation using the square root property: Problem type 2 Completing the square Solving a quadratic equation by completing the square Applying the quadratic formula: Exact answers Discriminant of a quadratic equation Solving a word problem using a quadratic equation with rational roots Solving a word problem using a quadratic equation with irrational roots Solving equations written in factored form Solving a quadratic equation with complex roots Section 1.7 (8 topics) Finding the value for a new score that will yield a given mean Solving a linear inequality: Problem type 2 Solving a linear inequality: Problem type 3 Solving a linear inequality: Problem type 4 Word problem with linear inequalities: Problem type 1 Word problem with linear inequalities: Problem type 2 Set builder and interval notation Union and intersection of intervals Chapter 1 Supplementary Topics (2 topics) Solving a word problem with two unknowns using a linear equation Solving a decimal word problem using a linear equation with the variable on both sides Chapter 2 - Functions and Graphs (43 topics, no due date) Section 2.1 (6 topics) Identifying functions from relations Vertical line test Evaluating functions: Problem type 1 Variable expressions as inputs of functions Domain and range from ordered pairs Domain of a square root function Section 2.2 (8 topics) Determining whether an equation defines a function Evaluating a piecewise-defined function Finding where a function is increasing, decreasing, or constant given the graph Domain and range from the graph of a continuous function Graphing a parabola of the form y = ax 2 Graphing a simple cubic function Graphing a piecewise-defined function Choosing a graph to fit a narrative Section 2.3 (12 topics*) Testing an equation for symmetry about the axes and origin Even and odd functions Writing an equation for a function after a vertical translation Writing an equation for a function after a vertical and horizontal translation Translating the graph of a function: One step Translating the graph of a function: Two steps Transforming the graph of a function by reflecting over an axis Transforming the graph of a function by shrinking or stretching Copyright 2012 UC Regents and ALEKS Corporation. ALEKS is a registered trademark of ALEKS Corporation. P. 2/5

7 Transforming the graph of a function using more than one transformation Graphing a parabola of the form y = ax 2 Graphing a function involving a square root How the leading coefficient affects the shape of a parabola Section 2.4 (7 topics) Sum, difference, and product of two functions Quotient of two functions Combining functions: Advanced Composition of two functions: Domain and range Composition of two functions: Basic Composition of two functions: Advanced Expressing a function as a composition of two functions Section 2.5 (5 topics) Horizontal line test Determining whether two functions are inverses of each other Inverse functions: Problem type 1 Inverse functions: Problem type 2 Inverse functions: Problem type 3 Chapter 2 Supplementary Topics (6 topics) Evaluating functions: Problem type 2 Finding the domain of a fractional function involving radicals Finding inputs and outputs of a function from its graph Domain and range from the graph of a piecewise function Finding intercepts and zeros of a function given the graph Finding x- and y-intercepts of the graph of a nonlinear equation (*) Some topics in this section are also covered in a previous section of this Objective. Topics are only counted once towards the total number of topics for this Objective. Chapter 3 - Polynomial and Rational Functions (32 topics, no due date) Section 3.1 (6 topics) Range of a quadratic function Finding the maximum or minimum of a quadratic function Word problem using the maximum or minimum of a quadratic function Rewriting a quadratic function to find the vertex of its graph Solving a quadratic inequality written in factored form Solving a quadratic inequality Section 3.2 (5 topics) Using a graphing calculator to find zeros of a polynomial function Polynomial long division: Problem type 1 Using the remainder theorem to evaluate a polynomial The Factor Theorem Using a graphing calculator to solve a word problem involving a polynomial of degree 3 Section 3.3 (1 topic) Finding a polynomial of a given degree with given zeros: Real zeros Section 3.4 (7 topics) Solving an equation involving absolute value: Advanced Solving a radical equation that simplifies to a linear equation: One radical Solving a radical equation that simplifies to a quadratic equation: One radical Solving a radical equation that simplifies to a quadratic equation: Two radicals Solving an equation with positive rational exponent Solving equations that can be written in quadratic form: Problem type 1 Solving equations that can be written in quadratic form: Problem type 2 Copyright 2012 UC Regents and ALEKS Corporation. ALEKS is a registered trademark of ALEKS Corporation. P. 3/5

8 Section 3.5 (6 topics) Using a graphing calculator to find local extrema of a polynomial function Finding zeros of a polynomial function written in factored form Determining the end behavior of the graph of a polynomial function Inferring properties of a polynomial function from its graph Matching graphs with polynomial functions Using a graphing calculator to solve a word problem involving a local extremum of a polynomial function Section 3.6 (6 topics) Domain of a rational function Finding the asymptotes of a rational function: Problem type 1 Finding the asymptotes of a rational function: Problem type 2 Sketching the graph of a rational function: Problem type 1 Sketching the graph of a rational function: Problem type 2 Matching graphs with rational functions: Two vertical asymptotes Chapter 3 Supplementary Topics (1 topic) Finding x- and y-intercepts given a polynomial function Chapter 4 - Exponential and Logarithmic Functions (28 topics, no due date) Section 4.1 (6 topics) Evaluating expressions with exponents of zero Evaluating an exponential function that models a real-world situation Solving an exponential equation: Problem type 2 Solving a word problem using an exponential equation: Problem type 1 Sketching the graph of an exponential function: Basic The graph, domain, and range of an exponential function Section 4.2 (8 topics) Converting between logarithmic and exponential equations Converting between natural logarithmic and exponential equations Evaluating a logarithmic expression Solving a logarithmic equation: Problem type 1 Sketching the graph of a logarithmic function: Basic The graph, domain, and range of a logarithmic function Sketching the graph of a logarithmic function Translating the graph of a logarithmic or exponential function Section 4.3 (6 topics) Basic properties of logarithms Writing expressions as a single logarithm Expanding a logarithmic expression: Problem type 1 Expanding a logarithmic expression: Problem type 2 Change of base for logarithms: Problem type 1 Solving a word problem using an exponential equation: Problem type 2 Section 4.4 (6 topics*) Solving a logarithmic equation: Problem type 2 Solving a logarithmic equation: Problem type 3 Solving a logarithmic equation: Problem type 5 Solving an exponential equation: Problem type 1 Solving an exponential equation: Problem type 2 Solving an exponential equation: Problem type 3 Chapter 4 Supplementary Topics (3 topics) Sketching the graph of an exponential function: Advanced Change of base for logarithms: Problem type 2 Solving an exponential equation: Problem type 4 Copyright 2012 UC Regents and ALEKS Corporation. ALEKS is a registered trademark of ALEKS Corporation. P. 4/5

9 (*) Some topics in this section are also covered in a previous section of this Objective. Topics are only counted once towards the total number of topics for this Objective. Chapter 5 - Systems of Equations and Inequalities (10 topics, no due date) Section 5.1 (5 topics) Identifying solutions to linear equations in two variables Classifying systems of linear equations from graphs Graphically solving a system of linear equations Solving a simple system using substitution Solving a system of linear equations using elimination with multiplication and addition Section 5.2 (2 topics) Solving a system of 3 equations in 3 unknowns Solving a word problem using a 3 by 3 system of linear equations Section 5.3 (2 topics) Solving a system of nonlinear equations Using a graphing calculator to solve a system of equations Chapter 5 Supplementary Topics (1 topic) Creating an inconsistent system of linear equations Copyright 2012 UC Regents and ALEKS Corporation. ALEKS is a registered trademark of ALEKS Corporation. P. 5/5