College Algebra-Math 143 (Dual-Credit course with the College of Southern Idaho)
2015-2016 (3 credits)
Instructor: Darin Gonzales, KHS
Office hours:
e-mail: dgonzales@kimberly.edu
Office phone:
7:40am-8:00 am
3:20 -3:45 pm
423-4170
1. Course Description: This course covers the fundamental concepts of Algebra; equations
and inequalities; functions and graphs; polynomial and rational functions, exponential,
logarithmic functions; systems of equations and inequalities; conics; and the binomial
theorem.
2. Pre-requisites: Math 108 (Algebra II in High School) or its equivalent with grade of C or
higher and COMPASS test placement in this course.
3. Required Textbook and Supplies:
 College Algebra, 3rd edition, by Robert Blitzer
 A graphing calculator. A classroom set of TI 83 graphing calculators will be available
to use during class time.
4. Course Objectives: The student will demonstrate a working knowledge of the material
covered in Chapters P, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8 of the textbook. The objective of this course is to
give the student a strong understanding of the topics mentioned in the Course Description and
Topical Outline. This course will prepare the student for courses which have College Algebra
as the pre-requisite.
5. Policies and procedures:
 Homework will be assigned daily
 Late homework will automatically get a 10-50% grade reduction. You have 3 weeks
to turn in a missing assignment.
 Anyone caught cheating during a test will receive a zero on the test.
 Tests will be given after every chapter (retakes are available). The highest score
available on a retake is 90%.
 A student may not have any cell phone or device that can take pictures or send
messages.
6. Outcomes Assessment: Students will be asked to complete a student evaluation at the end
of the year. Also, regular informal feedback will be solicited in an effort to improve the class
as we go along.
7. Grading Procedure (1st semester score will be added to 2nd semester score).
 Homework
225 points
 Tests
800 points
 Final
100 points
1125 points possible
Your grade will be calculated based on the number of points earned divided by the number of
points possible.
 You must score at least 60% or higher on your college final to receive a
letter grade of an A, B, or C for this course.
8. Aids available to you for this course:
The Khan Academy is a great online resource for help on any concept in college algebra.
9. Disabilities: Any student with a documented disability may be eligible for related
accommodations. If you have a disability that may affect your work in this class and
for which you may require reasonable accommodation(s), please see me.

Topical List:
I. Fundamental Concepts

Real Number System

Intervals, Absolute Values and Distance

Integer and Rational Number Exponents

Complex Numbers

Polynomials

Factoring

Rational Expressions
II. Equations and Inequalities

Linear Equations

Formulas and Applications

Quadratic Equations

Other Types of Equations

Inequalities

Absolute Value Equations and Inequalities
III. Functions and Graphs

Cartesian Coordinate system

Functions

Linear Functions

Quadratic Functions

Properties of Graphs

Algebra of Functions

Inverse Functions

Variations and Applications
IV. Polynomial and Rational Functions

Polynomial Division and Synthetic Division

Polynomial Functions

Zeros of Polynomial Functions

Fundamental Theorem of Algebra

Rational Functions and Their Graphs
V. Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

Exponential Functions and Their Graphs

Logarithms and Logarithmic Properties

Logarithmic Functions and Their Graphs

Exponential and Logarithmic Equations

Applications of Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
VI. Systems of Equations and Inequalities

Systems of Linear Equations in Two Variables

Systems of Linear Equations in More Than Two
Variables

Nonlinear Systems of Equations in Two Variables

Systems of Inequalities

Linear Programming
VII. Conic Sections

The Ellipse

The Hyperbola

The Parabola
VIII. Sequences and Series
11.

Binomial Theorem
Cost: $65.00 per credit ($195.00 for the 3 credit class). Scholarships are available, see
Mrs. Klug.
12.
Registration: Registration for dual credit will occur Christmas Break..
 If you fail a dual credit course or receive a withdrawal on your transcripts
it could make you ineligible for financial aid. You must successfully
complete 67% of your dual credit courses with an A, B, or C grade to
qualify for financial aid.