Intermediate Algebra 
Math 103 (50107)

Course Syllabus

Semester/Year: Fall 2013
Units: 5	Instructor:   Connie Hébert	
Cell phone number: (559)977-6951
Email:   connie.hebert@reedleycollege.edu		
Length:  18 weeks 
      First day - 8/13, Last day - 12/10  
Drop Deadline: 10/11
Drop Deadline (with full refund): 8/23
Add Deadline and Drop Deadline w/o “W”: 8/30	Schedule
All classes meet on Tuesday/Thursday
Time: 3:30 – 5:45pm
Room: CCI-201
No Class: 11/28	

Course Description 
This course will deal with many algebraic concepts including: equations and inequalities in two variables, rational exponents and roots, quadratic functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and conic sections.

Prerequisites: Mathematics 201 or equivalent

Student Learning Outcomes 

A. Simplify and/or factor mathematical expressions into forms more conducive to analysis. 

B. Solve equations introduced in Intermediate Algebra (linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, and radical). 

C. Graph functions and relations introduced in Intermediate Algebra (linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, 

D. Apply Intermediate Algebra topics (linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, and radical functions) to solve 

Course Objectives

A. Use the properties of lines and linear inequalities, and apply operations on functions. 

B. Simplify radical and complex expressions and perform operations on them.

C. Solve quadratic equations using various techniques including factoring and quadratic formula, and graph 

D. Apply the properties of exponents and logarithmic functions to change the base of a logarithm. 

E. Manipulate and graph equations of conic sections. 
•	Generalize arithmetic and geometric sequences and find the kth term of a binomial expansion.
Textbook (Optional): Elementary and Intermediate Algebra (Second Edition) by Woodbury
Web Access (Required): MyMathLab access code must be purchased. 
http://www.mymathlab.com/
The course id is hebert48813
 
Computer Requirements
Microsoft Windows	Windows 7	Firefox 11 and up
Chrome 15, 16
Internet Explorer 9	
	Windows Vista	Firefox 11 and up
Chrome 15, 16
Internet Explorer 9	
	Windows XP	Firefox 11 and up
Chrome 15, 16
Internet Explorer 9	
Mac OS	10.7 (Lion)	Safari 5.1
Chrome 15, 16
Firefox 11 and up	
	10.6.8 (Snow Leopard)	Safari 5.1
Firefox 11 and up	

Other Course Materials 
•	Sheet protector
•	Whiteboard marker
•	Calculator – not required, but is allowed on homework and tests

Outline of Topics Covered
A.	Equations and Inequalities in Two Variables 
1.	Slope of a line 
2.	The equation of a line 
3.	Linear inequalities in two variables 
4.	Operations on functions 
B.	Rational Exponents and Roots 
1.	Rational exponents 
2.	Simplified form for radicals 
3.	Arithmetic operations on radical expressions 
4.	Equations with radicals 
5.	Complex numbers 
C.	Quadratic Functions 
1.	Quadratic equations 
2.	Graphing parabolas 
D.  Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
1.	Exponential Functions 
2.	The Inverse of a function 
3.	Logarithms and their properties 
4.	Exponential and logarithmic equations and change of base 
E. Conic Sections 
1.	Circle 
2.	Ellipses and Hyperbolas 

Optional Topics (if time permits) 
F.	Quadratic Functions 
1.	Quadratic inequalities 
G.	Conic Sections 
1.	Second-degree inequalities and non-linear systems 
H.	Sequences and Series 
1.	Arithmetic and geometric sequences 
2.	Series 
3.	Binomial Expansion
 
Instructional Methodology/Mode of Delivery
We will work hard together to help you be the best mathematician possible.  We will have discussions, lectures, activities, and projects in class.   Homework will be assigned almost every day.  Quizzes will be assigned approximately once a week.  
 
Assignments & Tests
Homework will be completed on MyMathLab and turned in there as well.  This is a mastery course so you will have as many attempts on a problem as you so choose.  It is best to have at least 80% accuracy.  Your homework percentage will be a part of your grade.  Assignments and their due dates will be posted on MyMathLab.  Note: Being absent the day homework is due does not entitle you to turn it in late!  You will also receive a grade for in class activities.  There will be 5 tests, and they will be completed in class.  A student caught cheating will receive an F on the assignment and/or may be dropped from the course.
The final will be on Tuesday December 10, 3 - 4:50pm and will be comprehensive.
 
Attendance
After 5 absences, students may be dropped from the class. Late arrival and leaving class early will be considered as an absence. Any canceled classes will have a note posted on the classroom door. I'll do my best to email you as well.
 
Behavior
A student may be suspended from the class if he or she engages in a classroom behavior that interferes with the learning environment. Such behavior includes, but is not limited to, disruptive conversations with fellow students, regular tardiness, sleeping, and leaving the classroom during class time. Students are expected to turn off all pagers, cell phones, and other electronic devices during class time.  
 
Makeup Work/Late Assignments
In general no late assignments will be accepted.  Unless drastic circumstances occur those deadlines are firm. Contact me as soon as possible for any hoped for exceptions. 
 
Assignment Point Values / Grading Policies
Point totals will be collected together and your grade will be based on the grades below. You can keep track of your grade on MyMathLab.  If you believe any grade to be in error, please discuss it with me.  If you are not satisfied with our discussion, you make take your concern to the dean of this school.  Contact me, your program director or your advisor if you feel like you need help with this course.
 
Assignment		Points

Tests​			100
Final Exam 		200
Quizzes		30
Homework		10
Activities		10

Letter Grade		Percent

A			90% or above
B			80% - 89%
C			70% - 79%
D			60% - 69%
F			below 60%

Special Needs: If you have a verified need for an academic accommodation or materials in alternate media (i.e., Braille, large print, electronic text, etc.) per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, please contact me as soon as possible.