Syllabus: MA 115 Precalculus
Updated Summer 2008 – for use starting Fall 2008
Bulletin description:
Study of elementary functions, their graphs and applications, including polynomial,
rational, algebraic, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. This fast-paced
course is designed as a review of the algebra and trigonometry needed in calculus.
Prerequisites: Mathematics placement test score of 75 or more. Core Course.
Text:
Precalculus, 4th Edition, by J.Douglas Faires and James DeFranza, Thompson
Brooks/Cole, 2007, ISBN 0-495-01269-6.
Coverage:
Chapters 1-6, (omitting 1.5 & 6.6), with the end of 4.5 by the middle of the term.
Chap 1
Chap 2
Chap 3
Chap 4
Chap 5
Chap 6
2.5
1.5
2
3.5
1.5
1.5
weeks
weeks
weeks
weeks
weeks
weeks
Functions
New Functions from Old
Algebraic Functions
Trigonometric Functions
Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
Conic Sections, Polar Coordinates,
and Parametric Equations
Learning Objectives:
1. Recognition of function model groups by name, equation, and general graph shape:
Quadratic, Cubic, general polynomial, Trigonometric, Inverse Trigonometric,
Exponential, Logarithmic, Linear, & Rational.
2. Vocabulary used to describe graphs: domain, range, increasing, decreasing, xintercept, function zero, y-intercept, maximum, minimum, asymptote, vertical, horizontal,
axis, scale, coordinates.
3. Real number line and solving inequalities to describe number sets on that line.
4. Algebraic techniques for problem solving together with reasoning and argumentation
skills needed to present mathematical proof arguments.
4. Developing skill in the use of the graphing calculator for checking algebra, for
obtaining data, for comparing and contrasting graphs, and for solving systems by
intersection.
Remarks:
The course has an internet homework component using WebAssign. All sections of MA
115 will assign the set of text homework problems listed on page 2 on which the internet
work is based. In-class examinations and quizzes are completed without the use of the
graphing calculator except for specific problems. Students are expected to be able to
use their calculators in applications for the homework and for the specific portions of any
assessments in which they have been directed to make use of this technology.