CA Course Guide
Updated: Spring 2016
NORTHWEST ARKANSAS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Division of Science and Mathematics
Course Guide
Courses: MATH 1203 / 1204 / 1204R, College Algebra – Accelerated / College Algebra / College Algebra with Review
Catalog Description:
This course is an overview of the fundamental concepts of algebra with an emphasis on the study of functions. These
functions include (but are not limited to) linear, quadratic, polynomial, square root, absolute value, rational, exponential, and
logarithmic. Additional topics include equations and inequalities related to the function types, systems of equations and
inequalities, matrices, and sequences and series. Technology will be used to supplement and enhance understanding.
Computer assisted, WWW, or hybrid versions of this course may be offered in addition to the traditional format.
Required Text:
A Graphical Approach to College Algebra. Hornsby, Lial, Rockswald. Pearson, 2015.
Required Section Coverage:
Section
1.1 – Real Numbers and the Rectangular Coordinate System
1.2 – Introduction to Relations and Functions
1.3 – Linear Functions
1.4 – Equations of Lines and Linear Models
1.5 – Linear Equations and Linear Models
1.6 – Applications of Linear Functions
2.1 – Graphs of Basic Functions and Relations; Symmetry
2.2 – Vertical and Horizontal Shifts of Graphs
2.3 – Stretching, Shrinking, and Reflecting Graphs
2.5 – Piecewise-Defined Functions
2.6 – Operations and Composition
3.1 – Complex Numbers
3.2 – Quadratic Functions and Graphs
3.3 – Quadratic Equations and Inequalities
3.4 – Applications of Quadratic Functions and Models
3.5 – Higher-Degree Polynomial Functions and Graphs
3.6 – Topics in the Theory of Polynomial Functions i
3.7 – Topics in the Theory of Polynomial Functions ii
3.8 – Polynomial Equations and inequalities; Further Applications and Models
4.1 – Rational Functions and Graphs i
4.2 – Rational Functions and Graphs ii
4.3 – Rational Equations, Inequalities, Models, and Applications
4.4 – Functions defined by Powers and Roots
4.5 – Equations, Inequalities, and Applications involving Root Functions
5.1 – Inverse Functions
5.2 – Exponential Functions
5.3 – Logarithms and their Properties
5.4 – Logarithmic Functions
5.5 – Exponential and Logarithmic Equations and Inequalities
5.6 – Further Applications and Modeling with Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
6.3 – Solution of Linear Systems by Row Transformations
6.7 – Systems of Linear Inequalities and Linear Programming
8.1 – Sequences and Series
8.2 – Arithmetic Sequences and Series
8.3 – Geometric Sequences and Series
Optional topics
Pythagorean theorem, distance
and midpoint formulas
Regression
Three-part inequalities
Direct variation
Symmetry, even/odd functions
Shifts on models
Horizontal stretches and shrinks
Greatest integer function
Discriminant
Quadratic regression
Polynomial regression
Intermediate value theorem
Rule of signs, boundedness
theorems
Complex nth roots, inequalities
The function
Oblique asymptotes, rational
functions with no vertical
asymptotes
Rational inequalities, variation,
rate of work
Regression, circles and
horizontal parabolas
Inequalities
Inequalities
Regression
Note: a variety of application problems from the sections should be assigned
Note: this course should be taught using appropriate technology where applicable
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CA Course Guide
Updated: Spring 2016
Suggested Sections/Topics (time permitting): 6.1 (especially non-linear systems), 6.2, 3.8 (inequalities),
Required Forms of Assessment:
As part of our assessment program, each instructor must include six departmental questions on his or her final exam. These questions
relate directly to the established student learning outcomes and will be similar to the problems appearing on the departmental final exam
review. These six questions should be evenly weighted on the final and should comprise at least 10% of each student’s overall grade for
the course. The questions will be graded using a departmental grading rubric utilizing a 10-point scale. Instructors are required to fill out a
report for each of their classes listing the score of each individual student on each of the six departmental questions.
The only formulas that will be provided to the student are the chapter 8 sequences and series formulas. It is also a departmental policy
that no TI-89, TI-92 or comparable calculator be allowed for use during the final exam.
Instructor Resources: Available via the instructor resource center:
https://www.pearsonhighered.com/pearsonhigheredus/educator/catalog/index.page
Annotated instructor’s edition
Solutions manual
Testing manual
PowerPoint slides
MathXL – online homework, tutorial, and assessment system
MyMathLab – customizable text-specific online course
Student Resources:
Student’s solutions manual (can be purchased in bookstore)
MathXL – see above description
MyMathLab – see above description
InterAct Math (www.interactmath.com) – free tutorial questions accompanying the end-of-section questions which are also accessible to
students in traditional (non-computerized) sections
TI graphing and scientific calculator guides and manuals - https://education.ti.com/en/us/guidebook/search
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