Beginning Algebra AD 070
Course Description
This course provides a strong foundation in the concepts of mathematics and beginning algebra. Successful completion of this course should give students the necessary prerequisite skills to continue on with intermediate algebra as well as any course that requires algebraic fundamentals or problem solving capabilities. This course carries institutional credit only, which means that the credits are not calculated in the number of hours earned toward graduation. However, they do count toward full-time student status and for financial aid requirements.
Student Goals
- To organize, interpret, understand and express mathematical ideas graphically, numerically, symbolically, and in writing
- To identify the elements of a problem, construct solution strategies, solve problems and interpret the solutions
- To master the mathematical concepts and techniques listed under course content and use these techniques in real world applications
- To understand the need for mathematics outside the classroom and recognize the value of current and emerging technology
- To participate in a self assessment of mathematical skills; develop a plan to build on mathematical strengths and overcome weaknesses; and pursue the plan to prepare for future mathematics courses
Evaluation of Student Goals
Methods for evaluating the outcomes of the class include, but are not limited to individual and collaborative assignments, self-evaluation, class participation, quizzes and tests, and projects. Final grades will be determined by the following percentages: 90-100 %=A, 80-89%=B, 70-79%=C, 60-69%=D, below 60%=F.
Attendance
Class attendance is an extremely important factor in determining success in this course. Attendance is expected each time the class meets. If an absence occurs it is the student's responsibility to find out what was missed. Failure to attend class regularly may result in your withdrawal from class.
ACCESS
Students needing accommodations because of medical diagnosis or major life impairment will need to register with Accessible Campus Community & Equitable Student Support (ACCESS) and complete an intake process before accommodations will be given. The ACCESS office is located in the Student Success Center, Room 1270. You can also reach the office by e-mail at myaccess@siue.edu or by calling 618-650-3726. For more information on policies, procedures, or necessary forms, please visit the ACCESS website at www.siue.edu/access.
Academic Support
Many students occasionally need additional help outside class. Instructional Services provides many sources of academic help including:
- Your Instructor can provide extra help during scheduled office hours or by appointment.
- Tutors are available on a walk in basis at the Tutoring Resource Center (SSC 1252)
- Student solutions manuals for the text are available for use in the Tutoring Resource Center.
Academic Integrity
SIUE will not tolerate inappropriate behavior, cheating, or plagiarism. Failure to follow these rules may result in a zero on a paper or test, a failing grade for a course, or even expulsion from school. Students may refer to the SIUE booklet "Student Conduct and Student Grievances: Rights and Responsibilities", if they have questions about the policy.
Course Content
A. Fractions
- Fractions, equivalent fractions and simplifying fractions
- Multiplying and dividing fractions
- Adding & subtracting like fractions
- Finding the least commons denominator
- Adding and subtracting unlike fractions
B. Real Numbers
- Sets of numbers and the real number line
- Properties of real numbers
- Order of operations in simplifying algebraic expressions
- The addition and multiplication properties of equality
C. Linear Equations and Inequalities
- Properties of linear equations in one variable
- Solving linear equations
- Applications of linear equations
- Applications involving percents
- Formulas and problem solving
- Solving linear inequalities
D. Graphing Linear Equations in Two Variables
- The rectangular coordinate system
- Graphing linear equations
- Finding slopes and intercepts
- Slope-intercept form of a line
E. Systems of Linear Equations and Inequalities
- Solving systems of equations by graphing method
- Solving systems of equations by substitution method
- Solving systems of equations by addition method
- Linear inequalities and systems of linear inequalities in two variables
F. Exponents and Polynomials
- Multiplying and dividing exponents with a common base
- Properties of exponents
- Adding and subtracting polynomials
- Multiplying polynomials and special products
- Negative exponents and scientific notation
- Division of polynomials
G. Factoring
- GCF and factoring by grouping
- Factoring trinomials
- Factoring binomials
- Choosing a factoring strategy
- Solving quadratic equations by factoring
- Quadratic equations and problem solving
H. Rational Expressions
- Introduction to rational expressions
- Multiplication and division of rational expressions
Other topics if time allows.
