402 North Blackford St., LD 270

Indianapolis, IN 46202

(317) 274-6918

https://science.indianapolis.iu.edu/math/

Course Information

   
• Title: Algebra
   
• Course Number: MATH-I 111 31008
   
• Credits: 4 Semester Credits
   
• Meeting Times: Tuesday/Thursday, 6:00 PM -- 7:50 PM
   
• Location: HINE HALL (IP) 206
   
• Final Exam Dates: See https://indianapolis.iu.edu/academics/calendars/final-exam/

Course Description

Integers, rational and real numbers, exponents, linear equations and inequalities, polynomials and factoring, quadratic equations, graphing, logarithmic functions.

Prerequisites

(Math-I110 within last three terms with >=C) OR (ALEKs placement score of >= 40)

Textbook

Intermediate Algebra, 4^th Edition (Pearson Publishing) by Michael Sullivan. ISBN 9780137517350. Students are not required to purchase anything from the bookstore, as they will be automatically billed for the etext.

Assignments

In addition to five tests and a comprehensive final exam, students will complete in-class quizzes, online homework/quizzes, and active learning activities.

Grading Scale and Policies

The course average is computed using the following assignment weights: final exam (30%), tests (40%), online homework/quizzes (10%), in-class quizzes (10%), and active learning (10%). Letter grades are awarded based on a scale no worse than: A 90-100, B 80-90, C 70-80, D 60-70, F below 60. Plus/minus grades are awarded at the instructor’s discretion. 

Student Learning Outcomes

   
1. Linear Equations and Inequalities in One and Two Variables: Students will learn to solve linear equations in one variable, apply a structured problem-solving process to translate real-world problems into mathematical equations, and use formulas to solve problems. They will learn to solve linear inequalities in one variable and represent solutions graphically using interval notation. Students will also plot points and graph equations in the coordinate plane, interpret slope and intercepts, determine equations of parallel and perpendicular lines, and graph linear inequalities in two variables, identifying solution regions and applying these concepts to practical situations.
   
2. Relations, Functions, and Models: Students will learn to determine whether a relation is a function, identify the domain and range, and evaluate functions for given inputs. They will learn to graph functions from equations, tables, and descriptions, model data with linear functions, and interpret slope and intercepts in context. Students will solve and graph compound inequalities involving “and” and “or,” express solutions using interval notation, and solve absolute value equations and inequalities in both pure and applied contexts.
   
3. Systems of Equations and Inequalities: Students will learn to solve systems of equations in two variables using graphing, substitution, and elimination, and apply these methods to real-world problems. They will extend these skills to systems in three variables, learn to represent systems using matrices, perform matrix operations, and solve systems using determinants and Cramer’s Rule. Students will also learn to graph systems of linear inequalities, identify feasible regions, and interpret solutions in applied contexts such as business and economics.
   
4. Polynomials and Factoring: Students will learn to add, subtract, and multiply polynomials, divide polynomials using long and synthetic division, and evaluate polynomial functions. They will learn to factor polynomials by removing the greatest common factor, factoring by grouping, factoring trinomials, and recognizing special products such as perfect square trinomials and the difference of squares. Students will apply a general factoring strategy to a variety of polynomials, solve polynomial equations by factoring, and interpret solutions in real-world contexts.
   
5. Rational Expressions and Equations: Students will learn to multiply, divide, add, and subtract rational expressions, including simplifying results and finding common denominators. They will learn to simplify complex rational expressions, solve rational equations while identifying extraneous solutions, and solve rational inequalities, expressing solutions both graphically and in interval notation. Students will also apply rational expressions to solve real-world problems and work with models involving direct, inverse, and joint variation.
   
6. Radicals and Complex Numbers: Students will learn to simplify expressions using nth roots and rational exponents, apply the laws of exponents, and use the distance and midpoint formulas in coordinate geometry. They will simplify radical expressions using the properties of radicals, add, subtract, and multiply radical expressions, and rationalize denominators. Students will evaluate and graph functions involving radicals, solve radical equations, and apply them to real-world contexts. They will also learn about the complex number system and perform basic operations with complex numbers.
   
7. Quadratics and Polynomial Inequalities: Students will learn to solve quadratic equations by completing the square, using the quadratic formula, and solving equations quadratic in form. They will graph quadratic functions using transformations and properties, identify key features such as the vertex and intercepts, and solve maximum and minimum problems in applied contexts. Students will also learn to solve polynomial inequalities and interpret solutions in interval notation and graphical form.
   
8. Exponential and Logarithmic Functions: Students will learn to evaluate composite functions, find inverse functions, and determine whether a function is one-to-one. They will explore the properties and graphs of exponential and logarithmic functions, rewrite equations between exponential and logarithmic forms, and apply the properties of logarithms to simplify expressions. Students will solve exponential and logarithmic equations and apply these models to real-world growth, decay, and other applied scenarios.