MASTER COURSE OUTLINE
Big Bend Community College
Date: March 2008
DEPT: Math&
NO: 107
(Formerly: MTH 107)
COURSE TITLE: Math in Society
CIP Code: 27.0101
Intent Code: 11
SIS Code:
CREDITS:
5
Total Contact Hrs Per Qtr: 55
Lecture Hours Per Qtr: 55
Lab Hours Per Qtr:
Other Hours Per Qtr:
Distribution Designation: Math/Science SQR
______________________________________________________________________
PREPARED BY: Stephen Lane
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This course will introduce the non-math/science major to mathematical applications using
the power of the graphing calculator. It will investigate mathematical modeling using
functions in one or more variables and their applications to problems in population
growth, economics, rates of change, etc.
PREREQUISITE(S):
Appropriate scores in the BBCC Mathematics Assessment or successful
completion of MPC 099 or MPC 091, 092, and 093.
TEXT: Functions and Change: A Modeling Alternative to College Algebra by Crauder, Evans
and Noell.
COURSE GOALS:
The student will use the graphing calculator to solve mathematical models representing real-world
situations.
The student will use regression techniques to develop sophisticated mathematical models from
observational data.
The student will use the mathematical concept of a function to define and describe the abstract
relationships that exist in real-world experiences and observations.
To build the students confidence in their mathematical abilities and understanding.
COURSE OBJECTIVES:
Upon completion of the course the student should be able to:
1. use the graphing calculator to represent tabular data and algebraic information in a
graphical format;
2. to read and interpret the graph in order to analyze the features of the model;
3. to input data into the calculator in order to compute appropriate data values as an
application of the graphical model;
4. use the calculator to solve models based on linear and non-linear data;
5. create their own mathematical models for real world problems by applying
regression techniques on the calculator to exponential functions, logarithmic
functions, power functions, and periodic (trigonometric) functions.
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COURSE CONTENT OUTLINE:
I.
Using the Graphing Calculator
II.
Functions
a) Functions given by formulas
b) Functions of one variable
c) Functions of several variables
d) Functions given by tables
e) Functions given by graphs
f) Functions given by words
III.
GRAPHICAL AND TABULAR ANALYSIS
a) Tables and trends
b) Graphs
c) Solving nonlinear equations
d) Optimization
IV.
STRAIGHT LINES AND LINEAR FUNCTIONS
a) The geometry of lines
b) Linear functions
c) Modeling data with linear functions
d) Linear regression
e) Systems of equations
V.
EXPONENTIAL FUNCTIONS
a) Exponential growth and decay
b) Modeling exponential data
c) Modeling nearly exponential data
d) Exponential regression
VI.
A SURVEY OF OTHER COMMON FUNCTIONS
a) Power functions
b) Modeling data with power functions
c) Periodic functions and right triangle trigonometry
d) Polynomial and rational functions
VII.
RATES OF CHANGE
a) Velocity
b) Rates of change of functions
c) Equations of change: linear and exponential functions
d) Equations of change: graphical solutions
e) Estimating rates of change
VIII.
MATHEMATICS OF POPULATION ECOLOGY
a) Population dynamics: exponential growth
b) Population dynamics: logistic-growth
c) Population structure: survivorship curves
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EVALUATION METHODS/GRADING PROCEDURES:
In order to give the instructor the greatest flexibility in assigning a grade for the course, grades
will be based on various instruments at the instructors discretion. However, to maintain
instructional integrity there must be four class exams or three class exams and a project. A final
exam will be given if there are less than four exams or a project may be substituted for the final
exam if there are four in-class exams. At least 60% of the grade will be based on quantifiable
work (exams, homework, quizzes, etc.). The remaining portion of the grade may be based on
quantifiable work, attendance, projects, journal work, etc.
The following is a compilation of acceptable grading instruments.
In class exams and a final. Attendance, homework or quizzes. Research paper. Modeling
projects on the calculator or computer. Other projects or assignments as deemed necessary at the
instructor's discretion.
PLANNED TEACHING METHODS/LEARNING STRATEGIES:
x Lecture
x Small Group Discussion
x Special Project
Laboratory
Audiovisual
x Other (List)
Supervised Clinical
Individual Instruction
Computer Applications
Division Chair Signature
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