Time Schedule:
Joseph P. Benitez
B CUSP 122
Bothell Campus
Covers college algebra with an emphasis on polynomial, rational, logarithmic, exponential, and trigonometric functions. Offered: AWSp.
Class description
The emphasis of the course is to learn and improve the algebraic skills necessary to go on taking more math courses. The course covers fractions, exponents, radicals, factorization, linear functions, quadratic functions, some discussion of polynomials and rational functions, and an introduction to exponential and logarithmic functions. Graphing of various functions is also covered.
Student learning goals
•Improve algebraic skills
•Learn functional notation, algebraic manipulation of functions, and composition of functions.
•Recognize and be comfortable using polynomial, exponential, logarithmic and rational functions.
•Able to graph and manipulate functions symbolically.
•Apply functions and concepts to solve real world problems.
•Learn to become problem solvers.
General method of instruction
A typically class will consist of interactive lectures with use of examples from the textbook and small group work, usually involving worksheets. Regular attendance and participation is highly recommended and will be included in calculation of the final grade!
Recommended preparation
Recommended preparation is the placement test and the desire to learn.
Class assignments and grading
Online textbook: College Algebra 4/e (4th Edition) by Judith Beecher, Judith Penna, and Marvin Bittinger. Students can purchase an online (eTextbook) version of the textbook from Pearson. There is no need to buy a hard copy of the text. However, if students prefer, they may purchase a hard-copy of the textbook at the UW Bookstore or at www.mypearsonstore.com.
There will be 10 in-class worksheets, 4 quizzes, 2 mid-term exams and one comprehensive final exam. The course is not graded on a curve. Following is a rough grading scale: > 90% 3.5-4.0, 80-89% 2.5-3.4, 70-79% 1.5-2.4, 60-69% 0.7-1.4, < 60% 0.0 Grades will be determined using the following weighting: in-class worksheets (16%), quizzes (24%), 2 exams (40%), and comprehensive final exam (20%).
