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MA 112, Precalculus Algebra

Course Objectives

MA 112 has two main objectives.

• To help prepare students for calculus. MA 112 is the first course in a two-course precalculus sequence; the second course is MA 113, Precalculus Trigonometry
• To stand alone, as a self-contained course in college algebra

More specifically, a student who successfully completes MA 112 should

• Be able to perform standard algebraic operations on polynomial and rational expressions, and transform algebraic expressions into various equivalent forms, depending on the purpose intended.
• Understand functions and expressions from contrasting but complementary points of view: algebraic, geometric, procedural.
• Be able to recognize basic functions (linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic) from both an algebraic and geometric point of view.
• Know the basic properties of exponential and logarithmic functions.
• Be able to solve linear and quadratic equations and simple equations with exponential and logarithmic functions.
• Have a good understanding of the function concept and the standard ways of combining functions using the arithmetic operations and composition.
• Recognize algebraic fallacies, particularly those that involve the improper interchange of operations.
• Be able to translate simple applied problems into algebraic language and have a general understanding of the applications of basic algebra.
• Make progress towards the general goal of being able to learn, use, and communicate mathematics independently.

Format

MA 112 is taught in a computer-assisted format. Students attend two classes per week on a regular schedule with a dedicated instructor, and also work in the Mathematics Learning Center on their own schedule with the help of instructors and other graduate assistants. Graded homework assignments, quizzes, and tests are computer-based.

Alabama General Studies Curriculum

MA 112 is an AGSC approved course. The standard AGSC number is Math 112.

Prerequisites and Restrictions

Placement or successful completion of MA 004.

Credit

3 Semester Hours. No credit given to students who have completed an MA course numbered above MA112.

Grading System

This course is graded A, B, C, D, NC.

Course Materials

Precalculus, 3'rd edition, by Lial, Hornsby, and Schneider with MyMathLab, published by Addison Wesley. MyMathLab is part of the CourseCompass course management system.