Pierce College: Summer 2006
Math 98 Intermediate Algebra
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 05:00 – 07:40 PM
Instructor: Dr. Finney (a.k.a. Dr. D)
Phone: (253) 588-3603, ext. 3043
Classroom: OLY327
Email address: dfinney@pierce.ctc.edu
Text: Tussy and Gustafson’s Intermediate Algebra, 3rd Edition
Course Description: This course is a continuation of the study of fundamental algebra with
emphasis on polynomials, graphing, quadratic equations and inequalities. Key concepts include
factoring and solving for complex and rational functions. Problem solving (critical thinking) using real
world applications will also be emphasized.
Prerequisites: Satisfactory placement test score or completion of MATH 059 or MATH 060 with a
grade of at least 2.0.
Course Objective: To demonstrate an understanding of algebraic properties and applications that
will allow you to further pursue higher level math or upon completion to accomplish real world task in
your chosen profession. At the end of the course students should be able to:
1. Perform basic operations with real numbers, including: addition, subtraction,
multiplication, division, raising to powers and taking roots.
2. Perform basic operations to simplify polynomial expressions including: addition,
subtraction, multiplication, division, and the order of operations.
3. Recognize and apply scientific notation.
4. Apply properties of exponents to simplify algebraic expressions.
5. Solve linear equations in a single variable.
6. Solve linear and compound inequalities and represent solutions graphically.
7. Graph linear equations and interpret graphs using slope and intercepts.
8. Determine the equation of a line, given sufficient information.
9. Develop linear mathematical models.
10. Recognize and analyze functions represented graphically and algebraically.
11. Evaluate functions represented graphically and algebraically.
12. Solve linear systems of equations in two variables using graphing, substitution, and elimination.
13. Factor polynomial expressions.
14. Solve polynomial equations by factoring.
15. Perform basic operations to simplify rational expressions including complex fractions.
16. Solve rational equations including those involving extraneous solutions.
17. Apply properties to simplify expressions involving rational exponents and expressions
involving radicals.
18. Convert expressions involving rational exponents to radical expressions and vice-versa.
19. Perform basic operations with complex numbers.
20. Solve quadratic equations by completing the square and the quadratic formula,
including those that involve non-real solutions. All methods of assessment listed below
21. Graph functions (linear, quadratic, absolute value).
22. Synthesize or formulate relevant information in order to solve application problems.
23. Solve equations (formulas) for a specified variable.
24. Use estimation to determine reasonableness of solutions to problems.
25. Read and interpret graphs, charts and tables.
26. Link algebraic, numeric, and graphical solutions with each other.
27. Communicate methods of solutions and solutions to problems for the clarity of the receiver.
28. Participate actively and responsibly in course activity.
Expectations: You are expected to be courteous and considerate of others at all times, do your best
work, follow directions, and to be prepared. Most of all, you are expected to succeed. You must
come to class prepared with text, pencils, a notebook and completed assignments. If using a pen
(pencil preferred), it must be either black or blue ink. Classroom courtesies include no smoking, side
discussions, audible pagers or cell phones.
Calculators: You will need a scientific calculator with exponent and root keys. A graphing
calculator is not required for this course. If you have a graphing calculator it may not be used during
assessments that involve graphing or the final. The use of the TI 89 is not encouraged since it has
an equation solver function. This takes away from measuring student comprehension of the
concepts presented.
Attendance: The attached schedule is subject to change. Therefore, attendance is mandatory and
you are expected to stay for the entire class period. You are responsible for all sections covered in
the course. Missed exams and spot checks result in “0” points. For exams, if there is a preplanned
absence, let me know before, so arrangements can be made for taking the exam. There will be no
make ups for missed spot checks. Break times during class, if any, will be given in a manner that
accommodates the lesson, not at a predetermined time.
Grading: Grades are earned. You earn your grade by coming to class, completing the assignments,
and doing well on the assessments. Grades are based on a straight percentage basis; the amount of
points earned divided by the total possible. You should retain all your papers to study, track your
own progress and to check accuracy of grade reports.
Grading Scale
3.9 – 4.0
3.2 – 3.4
2.5 – 2.8
1.9 – 2.1
1.2 – 1.4
0.7 – 0.8
A
B+
BC
D+
D-
94 – 100%
87 – 89 %
80 – 83 %
74 – 76 %
67 – 69 %
62 – 63 %
3.5 – 3.8
2.9 – 3.1
2.2 – 2.4
1.5 – 1.8
0.9 – 1.1
0.0
AB
C+
CD
F
90 – 93%
84 – 86 %
77 – 79 %
70 – 73 %
64 – 66 %
Below 62 %
Tests – Spot Checks - Final: A final will be given per the college test schedule. The final will
include all of the key concepts presented throughout the course and will be worth 200 points.
Chapter test dates are included in the enclosed tentative schedule. Tests are worth 100 points. Spot
checks are unannounced, worth 10 or 20 points and can address any topic previously covered in the
course. Again, dates are subject to change.
Assignments: Each assignment is worth five points. Even numbered problems will be checked
during the assignment review at the next class session after they assigned. You check your own
work and should prepare any questions as you go. Assignments should be saved and turned in as a
packet on the day of a scheduled chapter test. That is, if a test is scheduled for chapters 1 and 2,
then the assignments from those two chapters will be due the day of the test. You are strongly
encouraged to use the interactive video skill builder video CD that comes with your text to help you in
understanding the material.
Student Work: You are expected to show all work on assignments, evaluations and projects.
Problem set-up and work required to do a problem should be included (no scratch paper is to be
turned in for evaluation). Full credit will not be given when key steps and procedures are not shown
in your work. All work is to be legible and easy to follow so that errors can be traced.
Policies: Campus policies also apply in this room. Plagiarism is a serious offense and will result in
automatic failure of this class. Cheating will result in a grade of zero for the assessment involved. I
should be notified immediately of any special needs or accommodations. Documentation may be
required.
Special Needs: Students with disabilities who believe they may need academic adjustments,
auxiliary aids or services to fully participate in course activities or meet course requirements are
encouraged to register with the Disability Support Services (DSS) Office at:
- Pierce College Puyallup – Room A115 – Gaspard Building – 253-840-8443
- Pierce College Fort Steilacoom – Room 300K – Cascade Building – 253-964-6526
Students requesting academic adjustments must obtain the “Approved Quarterly Academic
Adjustments Auxiliary Aids or Services” (green) form provided by DDS before any
adjustments are made.
If there are any unanswered questions about the course, please let me know.
Tentative Schedule for Math 98
Date:
Chapter.Section
Assignment
Tue, Jun 26
1.1 The Language of Algebra
1.2 The Real Number System
1.3 Operations with Real Numbers
1.4 Simplifying Algebraic Expressions
Thu, Jun. 28
1.5 Solving Linear Equations and Formulas
1.6 Using Equations to Solve Problems
1.7 More Problem Solving
Tue. Jul 3
2.1 The Rectangular Coordinate System
2.2 Graphing Linear Equations
2.3 Rate of Change and the Slope of a Line
Thu, Jul. 5
No Class
Tue, Jul. 10
2.4 Writing Equations of Lines
2.5 Intro to Functions
Test: Chp 1
Assignments due for Chp 1.
2.6 Graphs of Functions
3.1 Solving Systems by Graphing
3.2 Solving Systems Algebraically
Chapter 3 Review
pg. 244, #1-21 all.
Thu, Jul 12
Tue, Jul 17
4.1 Solving Linear Inequalities
4.2 Solving Compound Inequalities
4.3 Solving Absolute Value Equations
Wed, Jul 18
Last day to withdraw so class will not show on transcript.
Chapter 1 Review
pg. 88, #1-26 all, 27-121 odd.
Chapter 2 Review
pg. 176, 1-64 all, (You may put three lines on
one coordinate plane).
Chapter 4 Review
pg. 308, #1-28 all.
Thu. Jul. 19
5.1 Exponents
5.2 Scientific Notation
5.3 Polynomials and polynomial Functions
Test: Chp 2 & 3
Chapter 5 Review
pg. 396, #1-109 odd.
Assignments due for Chps 2 & 3
Tue, Jul. 24
5.4 Multiplying Polynomials
5.5 The GCF and Factoring by Grouping
5.6 The Difference of Squares; the Sum and Difference of Two Cubes
Thu, Jul. 26
5.7 Factoring Trinomials
5.8 Summary of Factoring Techniques
5.9 Solving Equations by Factoring
Test: Chp 4
Tue, Jull. 31
Thu, Aug. 2
6.1 Rational Functions and Simplifying Rational
Expressions
6.2 Multiplying and Dividing Rational Expressions
6.3 Adding and Subtracting Rational Expressions
6.4 Complex Fractions
Test: Chp 5 (Note Card Allowed)
6.5 Equations Containing Rational Expressions
6.6 Dividing Polynomials
7.1 Radical Expressions and Radical Expressions
Tue, Aug. 7
7.2 Simplifying and Combining Radical Expressions
7.3 Multiplying and Dividing Radical Expressions
7.4 Radical Equations
Thu, Aug. 9
7.5 Rational Exponents
7.6 Geometric Applications
8.1 Completing the Square
Tue, Aug. 14
8.2 The Quadratic Formula
8.3 Quadratic Functions and Their Graphs
Test: Chps 6 and 7
Assignments due for Chp 4.
Chapter 6 Review
pg. 485, #1-53 odd, and #54.
Assignments due for Chp 5.
Chapter 7 Review
pg. 559, #1-107 odd.
Chapter 8 Review
pg. 633, #1-52 all.
Assignments due for Chps 6 & 7.
Thu, Aug. 16
8.4 Complex Numbers
8.5 The discriminant and equations that can be written in quadratic form
9.3 Exponential Functions
pg. 673, #17-32 all.
Final Review
Tue, Aug. 21
Math 98 Final
Assignments due for Chps 8 & 9.