Syllabus for College Algebra

Course Description:

This course introduces the student to the concept of functions and their graphs. Students will graph linear,
quadratic, rational, exponential, logarithmic, radical, power, and absolute value functions and
transformations; perform operations on and compositions of functions; find the inverse of a function; apply
the laws of logarithms to simplify expressions and solve equations ; graph non-linear inequalities; solve
related applications and modeling problems.

AA degree-seeking students: Upon successful completion of MAC1105 (grade of A, B or C), you should
register for MGF1106, MGF1107, or STA2023 depending on your major and the institution to which you
are planning to transfer. Education majors may take MTG2204. Be sure to take your mathematics courses
in consecutive terms

Credits: 3

Pre-requisites

MAT1033 (Grade C or better), or appropriate placement score

Textbook

College Algebra Enhanced with Graphing Utilities, 5^th Ed, by Sullivan; Pub. Prentice Hall

At the Instructor’s discretion, a TI-83 or TI-84 Graphing Calculator may be required

Miami-Dade Learning Outcomes

As graduates of Miami Dade College, students will be able to:

Communicate effectively using listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
Use quantitative analytical skills to evaluate and process numerical data.
Solve problems using critical and creative thinking and scientific reasoning.
Formulate strategies to locate, evaluate, and apply information.
Demonstrate knowledge of diverse cultures, including global and historical perspectives.
Create strategies that can be used to fulfill personal, civic, and social responsibilities.
Demonstrate knowledge of ethical thinking and its application to issues in society.
Use computer and emerging technologies effectively.
Demonstrate an appreciation for aesthetics and creative activities.
Describe how natural systems function and recognize the impact of humans on the environment.

Each course taken at the college addresses some of these Learning Outcomes. College Algebra (MAC1105)
addresses outcomes 1, 2, 3, 4, and 8.

• Communicate effectively using listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills.
This course requires reading and understanding the material covered in the textbook. Students will
need to pay attention in class and may periodically be asked to explain a concept discussed in
class.

• Use quantitative analytical skills to evaluate and process numerical data.
The student will have the opportunity to develop these skills in solving applications of linear,
exponential and Logarithmic equations in two variables . They will also develop the ability to read
and interpret graphs that represent patterns (models) of data.

• Solve problems using critical and creative thinking and scientific reasoning.
Some of the applications of equations in two variables and of rational expressions will require the
use of critical and creative thinking. Students will have to use the information given in a problem
to set up equations (models) in one or two variables. They may at times need to use a chart to
organize the information given in the problem. The problem solving approach they will use in this
course constitutes an important contribution to the development of their scientific reasoning
ability.

• Formulate strategies to locate, evaluate, and apply information.
The areas that will provide students with this opportunity are applications of linear equations and
systems of linear equations in two variables as well as variation problems.

• Use computer and emerging technologies effectively.
Most homework assignments and quizzes will be posted on line on the Course Compass/My Math
Lab website. Students will develop the ability to use these computer resources to monitor their
progress and to help them reach a better understanding of the concepts, ideas and applications
discussed in the course. They will also have the opportunity to use the external links posted on the
website to explore topics related to the course goals and objectives.

MAC1105

Syllabus, Homework Assignments

Tentative Schedule (16 Week term)