Math 110: College Algebra
Contents
Catalog Information
Title
College Algebra.
(Credit Hours:Lecture Hours:Lab Hours)
(3:3:0)
Offered
F, W, Sp, Su
Prerequisite
Math 97 or equivalent.
Description
Functions, polynomials, theory of equations, exponential and logarithmic functions, matrices, determinants, systems of linear equations, permutations, combinations, binomial theorem.
Desired Learning Outcomes
This course prepares students to take courses in calculus, statistics, mathematics for elementary education majors, and other areas where algebra skills are required. Fluent skills in algebra are necessary for success in any area that uses mathematical analysis. The mastery of college algebra requires well-developed skills, clear conceptual understanding, and the ability to model phenomena in a variety of settings. College Algebra develops the concepts of graphing functions, polynomial and rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, conic sections, solving systems of equations, the binomial theorem, permutations, combinations, and probability. This course contributes to all the expected learning outcomes of the Mathematics BS (see learningoutcomes@byu.edu).
Prerequisites
Students are expected to have completed a high school course in algebra 2 or intermediate algebra. These prerequisite courses are not taught at BYU. Students should be able to graph and solve linear equations. Students should be able to graph and solve quadratic equations by factoring and the quadratic formula.
Minimal learning outcomes
Students should achieve mastery of the topics below. This means that they should know all relevant definitions, full statements of the major theorems, and examples of the various concepts. Further, students should be able to solve non-trivial problems related to these concepts. Previous final exams (see http://math.byu.edu/~wright/Math%20110/Math110.html) give specific examples of the level of understanding that is expected.
- Functions and their graphs
- Graph functions using horizontal and vertical shifts
- Graph functions using compressions and stretches
- Graph functions using reflections about the x-axis or y-axis
- Form composite functions and find the domain
- Determine the inverse of a function and graph an inverse function from the graph of a function
