MASTER COURSE OUTLINE
Big Bend Community College
Date: January 2009
DEPT: MATH
NO: 120
COURSE TITLE: College Algebra
CIP Code: 27.0102
Intent Code: 11
SIS Code:
CREDITS: 5
Total Contact Hours Per Qtr: 55
Lecture Hours Per Qtr: 55
Lab Hours Per Qtr:
Other Hours Per Qtr:
Distribution Designation: Math/Science SQR
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PREPARED BY: Stephen Lane, Barbara Whitney, Salah Abed, Sonia Farag and Tyler Wallace
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This course will present the student with the basic concepts and applications of college level algebra,
introduction to functions, graphing, introduction to probability, and right triangle trigonometry. This course
is designed to be a college level, terminal, math course for the liberal arts major and also to prepare the
science, engineering or business student for more advanced work.
PREREQUISITE(S):
Appropriate scores in the BBCC Mathematics Assessment or successful completion of MPC 099
or MPC 093.
TEXT: Appropriate college level text as chosen by the math faculty.
COURSE GOALS:
1. The student should demonstrate a mastery of college level algebra, probability and right
triangle trigonometry.
2. Proceed to Math 141 - Elementary Functions or
3. Proceed to Math 147 - Finite Mathematics
COURSE OBJECTIVES: Upon completion of the course the student should be able to:
1. Solve a variety of algebraic equations including polynomial, exponential, logarithmic
equations;
2. Solve application problems using exponential and logarithmic forms;
3. Manipulate a variety of algebraic expressions including polynomial, exponential, logarithmic
expressions;
4. Manipulate functional notation;
5. Graph functions using translations, symmetries, etc.;
6. Apply the fundamental concepts of probability;
7. Solve right-triangle trigonometric equations and application problems;
8. Apply the binomial theorem and expansion.
COURSE CONTENT OUTLINE:
FUNDAMENTAL CONCEPTS
Sets of Real Numbers
Integer Exponents. Scientific Notation
Absolute Value equations and inequalities
th
n Roots
Rational Exponents
Polynomials
Factoring
Fractional Expressions
Solving Equations (Review and Preview)
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COORDINATES AND GRAPHS
Rectangular Coordinates
Graphs and Equations
Equations of Lines
Translations and Transformations of Graphs
Symmetry and Graphs
EQUATIONS AND INEQUALITIES
Quadratic Equations; Theory and Examples
Other Types of Equations
Applied Problems and Applications
FUNCTIONS
The Definition of a Function
The Graph of a Function
Methods of Combining Functions.
Inverse Functions
Variation (Optional)
EXPONENTIAL AND LOGARITHMIC FUNCTIONS
Exponential Functions
x
The Exponential Function y = e
Logarithmic Functions
Properties of Logarithms
Equations with Logs and Exponents
Compound Interest
Exponential Growth and Decay
ADDITIONAL TOPICS
Trigonometric Functions of Acute Angles
Right-Triangle Applications
The Binomial Theorem
Permutations and Combinations
Introduction to Probability
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., at the instructor's discretion.
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 may be assigned as deemed appropriate at the instructor's discretion.
PLANNED TEACHING METHODS/LEARNING STRATEGIES:
x Lecture
x Small Group Discussion
Special Project
Laboratory
Audiovisual
Other (List)
Supervised Clinical
Individual Instruction
Division Chair Signature
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