Course Title: Transitional College Algebra

College Algebra. Three credits; four classroom hours plus a required one-hour lab component each week. This is a special section of Math 1710 with additional content addressing deficiencies which may hinder successful completion of the course. It is not a prerequisite to College Algebra (Math 1710). It is an equivalent course and satisfies the General Education Mathematics requirement and meets specific requirements for programs as outlined in the MTSU Undergraduate Catalog. All sections of this course require a graphing calculator.

Prerequisites

Two years of high school algebra and/or results of university assessments or successful completion of MATH 1000 or equivalent.

Pretest

A pretest is available to verify placement in this prescribed course. It has 25 questions, a 35 minute time limit, and a score of 18 or higher would indicate the student can change to a non-prescribed course. No student can test out if repeating this course.

Instructor

Dr. Otts
Office: SAG 116
Phone: (615)898-2020
Email: david.otts@mtsu.edu DO NOT use D2L, email me directly using your MTSU email account ONLY.
Office Hours: see link Office Hours

Text

College Algebra with Modeling & Visualization, 5th edition, by Rockswold. The text is online and homework ia completed at www.MyMathLab.com, so students are required to purchase an access code to enroll online to do homework. It is not necessary to buy the text if you are comfortable using the online version. The Course ID and information about enrolling will be discussed on the first day of class. Use your MTSU email address when registering for MyMathLab and for emailing the instructor.

• Purchasing a used textbook from a friend, some book stores, or some other online source will not give you the required access code to MML

Calculator

A TI-83 or TI-84 Plus graphing calculator is required for this course.

Math Lab

The University Studies Math Lab is located in SAG 202. The lab is staffed with tutors and equipped with computers to support students in prescribed courses. The US Math Lab (SAG 202) is an excellent locale in which to do your online homework.

Purpose

College Algebra contains mathematics topics that are widely found in non—STEM contexts. The course includes material that is both useful and expands students' understanding of mathematics beyand the entry—level requirements for college. Students' mathematical skills are fostered in the areas of mathematical modeling with applications, problem solving, critical thinking skills, and the use of appropriate technologies.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course with a passing grade, the student will have

• Enhanced mathematical and problem solving skills.
• Applied algebraic methods to the solution of practical problems.
• Explored the capabilities of the graphing calculator to better understand algebraic concepts.
• Developed an understanding of functions from graphical, numeric, and symbolic viewpoints.
• Developed familiarity with polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions including examples of their utility in modeling real-world phenomena.
• Solved systems of linear equations by a variety of methods, including matrix methods.
• Applied counting principles in the computation of probabilities.
• TBR General Education Mathematics Goal and Learning Outcomes:

TBR Goal

The goal of mathematics is to expand students’ understanding of mathematics beyond the entry—level requirements for college and to extend their knowledge of mathematics through relevant mathematical modeling with applications, problem solving, critical thinking skills, and the use of appropriate technologies.

TBR Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this course, students will demonstrate the ability to

1. Use mathematics to solve problems and determine if the solutions are reasonable.
2. Use mathematics to model real world behaviors and apply mathematical concepts to the solution of real—life problems.
3. Make meaningful connections between mathematics and other disciplines.
4. Use technology for mathematical reasoning and problem solving.
5. Apply mathematical and/or basic statistical reasoning to analyze data and graphs.

Course Requirements

In order to accomplish the learning outcomes of this course, the learner is required to

• Attend class lectures
• Participate in class activities
• Read and study assignments
• Solve assigned problem sets
• Complete tests, quizzes, homework, abd other assignments.
• Complete a comprehensive final exam

If you do not take a final exam, you cannot pass the course.

Final Exam

The final examination is a Mathematics Department, multiple-choice, comprehensive examination given to all students enrolled in MATH 1710. Students are required to have completed the final examination as per the scheduled date/time for their respective section (see final exam schedule and review links below). The final examination is closed book and closed notes (except for allowed 3x5 note card). Examination pamphlets and scratch paper are provided by the exam proctor.

UNEXCUSED ABSENCES FOR THE FINAL EXAMINATION RESULT IN A COURSE GRADE OF F.

• Final Exam Schedule for Dr. Otts' classes
• MATH 1710 Final Exam Review
• Final Exam Supplement Notes

Note: Students are responsible for, and required to bring the following materials to the final examination: (1) a large Scantron, Form No. 4521, (2) a TI 83 or 84 Plus graphing calculator, (3) a #2 pencil, and (4) a small (3 x 5) note card containing student preferred information.

Note: The results of the final exam may be used for departmental and University study as a part of the Tennessee Board of Regents assessment of general education. Please know that no names will appear in the study and the anonymity of all test scores is assured. Your participation in the study is voluntary, and your decision to participate or not will not affect your course grade or your standing with Middle Tennessee State University.

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this course the student will have:

• Enhanced mathematical and problem solving skills.
• Applied algebraic methods to the solution of practical problems.
• Explored the capabilities of the graphing calculator to better understand algebraic concepts.
• Developed an understanding of functions from graphical, numeric, and symbolic viewpoints.
• Developed familiarity with polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions including examples of their utility in modeling real-world phenomena.
• Solved systems of linear equations by a variety of methods, including matrix methods.
• Applied counting principles in the computation of probabilities.

Course Topics

This course consists of selected topics from Chapters R, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 8 in the required text, College Algebra with Modeling & Visualization, 5th edition, by Rockswold. Topics include factoring polynomials, simplifying radical expressions; exponential properties; graphing equations; linear, quadratic, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions; analysis of graphs; linear systems; inequalities; counting principles; and probability.

Course Topics, Assignments, & Links

Homework for textbook assignments are to completed on line through MyMathLab. A Student Access Kit (SAK) is needed to enroll in CourseCompass. An SAK is bundled with the textbook and is also available by itself from the University Bookstore in the New Student Union building.

Unit I . Topics; Chapter.Sections

Pythagorean Theorem; R.1
Integer Exponents; R.2
Factoring Polynomials; R.4: omit sum and difference of cubes
Radical Notation and Rational Exponents; R.6
Radical Expressions; R.7

 

Unit II. Topics; Chapter.Sections

Numbers, Data, and Problem Solving; 1.1
Visualization and Graphing Data; 1.2 (omit circles)
Functions and Their Representations; 1.3
Types of Functions and Their Rates of Change; 1.4 (omit difference quotient)

 

Unit III Topics; Chapter.Sections

Equations of Lines; 2.1 (omit interpolation and extrapolation)
Linear Equations; 2.2
Linear Inequalities; 2.3
More Modeling with Functions; 2.4 (omit greatest integer function & direct variation))
Absolute Value Equations and Inequalities; 2.5

 

Unit IV. Topics; Chapter.Sections

Quadratic Functions and Models; 3.1 (omit completing the square)
Quadratic Equations and Problem Solving; 3.2
Quadratic Inequalities; 3.4
Transformations of Graphs; 3.5 (omit combining transformations);
PLUS
Polynomial Functions and Models; 4.2 (omit polynomial regression)
Rational Functions and Models; 4.6 (omit graphing rational functions by hand & slant asymptotes)

 

Unit V. Topics; Chapter.Sections

Combining Functions; 5.1
Inverse Functions and Their Representations; 5.2
Exponential Functions and Models; 5.3
Logarithmic Functions and Models; 5.4
Properties of Logarithms; 5.5
Exponential and Logarithmic Equations; 5.6

 

Unit VI. Topics; Chapter.Sections

Functions and Systems of Equations in Two Variables; 6.1 (omit joint variation)
Systems of Inequalities in Two Variables; 6.2 (omit linear programing and nonlinear inequalities)
Solutions of Linear systems Using Matrices; 6.4 (main emphasis on using calculator)
Properties and Applications of Matrices; 6.5 (omit matrices and social networking)
Inverses of Matrices; 6.6 (find inverse using calculator)
Determinants; 6.7 (calculate determinant with calculator)
Counting; 8.3
Probability; 8.6

 

Course Evaluation and Grading

You will have the opportunity to earn 1000 points this semester:

The comprehensive final exam accounts for 200 pts of the total grade. The final will only be given at the time noted (click link: Final Exam Schedule) in the regular class meeting room.

If you do not take the final exam you will automatically be assigned the grade of F for the course.

The other 800 pts of the total grade comes from the MML homework (100 pts), quizzes (60 pts), group projects (40 pts), and chapter tests (600 pts).

Grading Scale: A: 900-1000; B: 800-899; C: 700-799; D: 600-699; F: Below 600. Because of the possibilities for extra credit, a 599 or below is an F.

There is NO plus/minus grading in Math 1710-K.

A grade of I will be given only in accordance with University policy and approval of the chair of the University Studies Department.

Academic Misconduct

Academic Misconduct is defined as plagiarism, cheating, fabrication, or facilitating any such act. For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) Plagiarism. The adoption or reproduction of ideas, words, statements, images, or works of another person as one’s own without proper acknowledgment.

(2) Cheating. Using or attempting to use unauthorized materials, information, or study aids in any academic exercise. The term academic exercise includes all forms of work submitted for credit or hours.

(3) Fabrication. Unauthorized falsification or invention of any information or citation in an academic exercise.

Academic misconduct will result in actions taken as defined by the MTSU code of Academic Misconduct. In addition to other possible disciplinary sanctions that may be imposed through regular institutional procedures as a result of academic misconduct, the instructor has the right to assign an F or a zero for the work in question, or to assign an F for the course. If a student believes he or she has been falsely accused of academic misconduct, and if his or her final grade has been lowered as a result, the student may appeal the case through the appropriate institutional procedures.

Drop/Withdrawal Policy

Students may not drop or withdraw from this course unless they withdraw from all University courses or obtain special permission from the chair of the University Studies Department due to extenuating circumstances. (Go to Peck Hall 202 for information.)

General conduct in class

The instructor has primary responsibility for control over all classroom behavior and can direct the temporary removal or exclusion from the classroom of any student engaged in disruptive conduct or conduct which otherwise violates the general rules and regulations of MTSU Classroom Misconduct. A cell phone policy will be at the instructor's discretion.

Dr. O's Policy: When you enter the classroom, be sure that you have

1. Set your cell phone to vibrate or turned it off competely.
2. Put it in your bag or some other place that is totally it out of my sight.

If you disrupt the class or cannot attend to the class because of your cell phone, you WILL be asked to leave. If your disruptive behavior continues, you may be reported to the Office of Judicial Affairs and Mediation Services.

Attendance and Make-Up Policy

Attendance is required at each class meeting. The instructor will keep a record of attendance for each student. [Note: Attendance and Make-up Policies will be at the instructor's discretion.] Participation in University sanctioned activities or in military duties and situations where the institution's policy on inclement weather is applicable are considered excused absences. However, non-attendance does not relieve a student of the responsibility for work covered or assigned. An Attendance Report will be generated during the first two weeks of class and periodically thereafter. This could affect the student's financial aid and/or scholarships.
Note for Students on Lottery Scholarship - Do you have a lottery scholarship? To retain the Tennessee Education Lottery Scholarship eligibility, you must earn a cumulative TELS GPA of 2.75 after 24 and 48 attempted hours and a cumulative TELS GPA of 3.0 thereafter. A grade of C, D, F, FA, or I in this class may negatively impact TELS eligibility.

If you drop this class, withdraw, or if you stop attending this class you may lose eligibility for your lottery scholarship, and you will not be able to regain eligibility at a later time.

For additional Lottery rules, please refer to your Lottery Statement of Understanding form or contact your MT One Stop Enrollment Coordinator.

Reasonable Accommodation for Students with Disabilities

Middle Tennessee State University is committed to campus access in accordance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Any student interested in reasonable accommodations can consult the Disability & Access Center (DAC) website or contact the DAC for assistance at 615-898-2783 or dacemail@mtsu.edu