A basic algebra review of exponents, comples fractions, factoring, linear and quadratic equations, and inequalities. Functions are examined in depth both from a definitional and graphical perspective. Exponential and logarithmic functions, their graphs, and applications are reviewed/introduced. Basic trigonometric functions and identities are covered as well as their applications. The course is designed as a preparation for calculus. A TI-83 or higher graphing calculator is required.
Prerequisites: none.
Stewart, Redlin, and Saleem; Precalculus: Mathematics for Calculus, 4th ed., Brooks/Cole, 2002. ISBN: 0-534-43421-5.
The course description states, "A TI-83 or higher graphing calculator is required", however a scientific calculator would be sufficient for most of this course. Since one typically takes this course as preparation for calculus, it may be wise to invest in a graphing calculator at this time.
The Texas Instruments TI-83 Plus retails for about $85 to $95. The TI-84, TI-89, and Voyage 200 calculators offer more features, but of course at a higher cost.
Grades are based on the following assessment items:
Tests will consist of problems similar to those assigned as homework and done in class. Your instructor will announce the specific topics to be covered on each test about a week prior to the test date. The chapters covered on each test are as follows:
The format of the final exam will be the same as that of the tests, but longer. The final exam is comprehensive.
Assignments will be given roughly every other week, and serve as an interim assessment between tests. These are essentially "take-home quizzes", and are to represent the student's individual effort. Collaboration of any kind is not allowed (see policy on Honor Philosophy).
Although not factored into the student's grade, homework is an essential component contributing to the student's success in a mathematics course. It is intended for practice, skills development, and reinforcement of course concepts. With few exceptions, homework will be assigned for each class meeting.
Answers to homework problems will usually be found in the back of the textbook, and are provided for the student to check her work. However, the answers do not necessarily give insight into how one arrives at the answer. The student should feel comfortable that she can arrive at the expected answer, and seek help if having difficulty doing so.
Collaboration on homework is permitted.
| Mo | We | Fr | Topic | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aug | 23 | 25 | 27 | Ch. 1 - Fundamentals |
| 30 | ||||
| Sep | 1 | 3 | ||
| 8 | 10 | |||
| 13 | 15 | |||
| 17 | Ch. 2 - Functions | |||
| 20 | ||||
| 22 | Test 1 | |||
| 24 | Ch. 2 (continued) | |||
| 27 | 29 | |||
| Oct | 1 | |||
| 4 | 6 | 8 | ||
| 13 | 15 | Ch. 3 - Polynomial and Rational Functions | ||
| 18 | Test 2 | |||
| 20 | 22 | Ch. 3 (continued) | ||
| 25 | 27 | 29 | ||
| Nov | 1 | 3 | 5 | Ch. 4 - Exponential and Logarithmic Functions |
| 8 | 10 | 12 | ||
| 15 | 17 |
Ch. 5 - Trigonometric Functions of Real Numbers Ch. 6 - Trigonometric Functions of Angles |
||
| 19 | Test 3 | |||
| 22 | Ch. 5, 6 (continued) | |||
| 29 | ||||
| Dec | 1 | 3 | ||
| 6 | ||||
| TBA | Final Exam |
Final exam date will be announced by the Registrar.