NORTHWEST ARKANSAS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
STEP-AHEAD PROGRAM
Fall 2004
Course:
Instructor:
Phone:
E-mail:
Math 1204, College Algebra (4 credit hours)
Patsy Williford
Fayetteville High School 444-3050, ext. 134
pwilliford@fayar.net
Prerequisites: 19 on the math portion of the ACT and a 3.00 gpa.
Tuition: $52 per hour - $192
Text: College Algebra, 9th Edition
Lial, Hornsby, and Schneider
Addison Wesley, 2005
ISBN: 0-321-22757-3
You will also need a graphing calculator. I recommend the TI-83+ or TI-84.
COURSE DESCRIPTION
College Algebra is an overview of the fundamental concepts of algebra. Topics include
linear and quadratic equations and inequalities; the Cartesian plane and graphing; using a
graphing utility; functions, graphs, and models; polynomial and rational functions;
exponential and logarithmic functions; systems of equations, inequalities and matrices.
COURSE OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this course the student should be able to:
l. Write the equation of a line in slope-intercept form when given two points.
2. Identify and graph a secondary function using shifts and translations of a “basic”
graph.
3. Find the zeros of a polynomial function using the Rational Zero Test and synthetic
division.
4. Solve various types of equations including polynomial, exponential, and logarithmic
equations algebraically and graphically.
5. Solve a system of two or three linear equations using a matrix method.
6. Recognize, use and write arithmetic and geometric series.
*We will be utilizing the technology of graphing calculators to learn many of the above
skills. Students should be able to perform these tasks both manually and with the aid of a
calculator. On quizzes and tests students will be required to show all work
GRADING
Your grade in this course will be based on the following:
Three regular exams @ 100 pts. each
Final Exam
Quizzes, 15 @ 10 pts. each
Total points possible
300 pts.
150 pts.
150 pts.
600 pts.
Grading Scale:
A= 90 – 100% B=80 –89% C=70 –79% D-60 –69% F=59% and below
EXAMS
There will be four regular 100-point exams during the course of the semester. Each of
these will be comprehensive to a certain extent. After the first exam, each test will be
allocated as follows; approximately 75% over material since the last exam and
approximately 25% over previous material. Your final exam will be worth 150 points
and will be comprehensive. On exam days you have the option of starting your test at
7:15a. m. You may not make up exams for any reason.
QUIZZES
We will have frequent 10 point quizzes. Only the best 15 of these will be used to
determine your grade. You may not make up quizzes for any reason.
CALCULATOR USAGE
This course will require the use of a graphing utility. If you do not have a graphing
calculator available, you may lease one from the FHS Math Department. See me for a
lease form.
MISSED CLASSES INCLUDING CLASS CANCELLATION DUE TO
WEATHER
If you miss class for any reason, it is your responsibility to catch up on the missed
material by the next class period. If a quiz or exam is scheduled for a particular class
period and the previous class period or the day scheduled for the quiz is cancelled due to
inclement weather, come to class prepared to take the exam or quiz the first class day
school is back in session.
TUTORING
See me for extra help or tutoring. Remember that I am here to help you. If you have
questions or concerns please come see me.
You must see a Fayetteville High School Counselor before you drop this course.