SYLLABUS

Math 1304 College Algebra

FALL 2003

A. Catalogue Description: “rational expressions, radicals, complex numbers, graphs, second- degree equations in one and two variables, exponential and logarithmic functions, sequences, series, and the Binomial Theorem.”

B. Prerequisite: Two years of high scholl algebra or Math 1300

C. Textbook: Intermediate Algebra for College Students, Allen R. Angel, Pearson Prentice Hall Publishing Company, Sixth Edition

D. Materials: Textbook, calculator, pencil, paper, graph paper

E. Instructor: Mr. Jim McCoy Phone: (210) 651-0788 email: mlmcoy@swbell.net

Office Hours by appointment

F. Course Outline:

Basic Concepts and Properties

Equations, Inequalities

Graphs and Functions

Equations and Inequalities

Polynomials

Rational Expressions

Roots, Radicals, and Complex Numbers

Quadratic Functions

Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

Sequences, Series

Binomial Theorem

G. Course Competencies:

Upon completion of this course, students are expected to be able to:

1) work problems using real numbers and real number properties,

2) solve linear equations and inequalities,

3) perform operations using polynomials,

4) solve polynomial equations using factoring,

5) perform operations using rational expressions,

6) solve equations involving rational expressions,

7) perform operations and solve equations involving exponents and radicals,

8) perform operations involving complex fractions,

9) solve quadratic equations using factoring, completing the square, and the quadratic equation,

10) discover and use properties of a line using coordinate geometry,

11) graph lines, parabolas, circles, ellipses, and hyperbolas,

12) perform operations involving functions, inverse functions, and variables,

13) use synthetic division and the rational root theorem to solve polynomial functions,

14) work problems using exponential functions,

15) evaluate logarithms and solve logarithic functions,

16) work problems involving sequences and series

17) be familiar with the Binomial Theorem.

H. Requirements for Credit:

Homework (20%): Homework is due the class period following the period in which it was assigned. Questions from students will be answered before the homework is turned in.

Assignments should have the student’s name, the problem set and the date at the top of the first page.

Exams (80%): There will be two major exams, one before the end of the 5^th week of class and one during the final class session. The final will not be comprehensive. Each exam will represent 40% of the final grade.

Attendance: The role will be called at the beginning of each class. Students are encouraged to be prompt and not to miss any class. In case of an emergency, make arrangements with the instructor to cover the material. “Any student who misses 25% or more of the regularly scheduled class meetings will receive a grade of F in the course. There are no exceptions to this policy....”

I. Policy Note: “It is university policy that no otherwise qualified disabled person be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subject to discrimination under any educational program or activity in the University”

J. Holidays: None in the Fall 2003 term