COURSE PLAN FOR ALGEBRA I

I. Course Description

Covers the topics of Algebra I including real numbers, equations and inequalities,
exponents, polynomials, factoring, Cartesian coordinate system, rational expressions, and
applications. Develops the mathematical proficiency necessary for selected curriculum
entrance. Credits not applicable toward graduation. Prerequisites: a placement
recommendation for MTH 03 and Arithmetic or equivalent. Contact 5 hours per week.

II. Introduction

In addition to developing a strong base of algebra skills, this course is intended to help
you learn "how to learn" mathematics. It is intended to help relieve your anxiety and
build your confidence in your mathematics skills. With the mathematics and study skills
you will develop in MTH 03, you should be able to move to the next mathematics course
with a higher expectation of success.

III. Course Content

Chapter 1 Real Numbers
1.1 The Real Number Line and Absolute Value
1.2 Addition with Integers
1.3 Subtraction with Integers
1.4 Multiplication and Division with Integers
1.5 Exponents, Prime Numbers, and Order of Operations
1.6 Multiplying and Dividing Fractions
1.7 Adding and Subtracting Fractions
1.8 Decimal Numbers and Change in Value
1.9 Properties of Real Numbers

Chapter 2 Algebraic Expressions, Linear Equations, and
Applications
2.1 Simplifying and Evaluating Algebraic Expressions
2.2 Translating English Phrases and Algebraic Expressions
2.3 Solving Linear Equations: x + b = c and ax = c
2.4 Solving Linear Equations: ax + b = c
2.5 Applications: Number Problems and Consecutive Integers
2.6 Applications: Percent Problems

Chapter 3 Formulas, Applications, and Linear Inequalities
3.1 Working with Formulas
3.2 Formulas in Geometry
3.3 Applications
3.4 Ratios and Proportions
3.5 Linear Inequalities

Appendix A.1 Absolute Value Inequalities
Chapter 4 Straight Lines and Functions
4.1 The Cartesian Coordinate System
4.2 Graphing Linear Equations in Two Variables
4.3 The Slope-Intercept Form: y = mx + b
4.4 The Point-Slope Form: y - y₁ = m( x - x₁)
4.5 Introduction to Functions and Function Notation
4.6 Graphing Linear Inequalities in Two Variables

Chapter 5 Exponents and Polynomials
5.1 Exponents
5.2 More on Exponents and Scientific Notation
5.3 Identifying and Evaluating Polynomials
5.4 Adding and Subtracting Polynomials
5.5 Multiplying Polynomials
5.6 Special Products of Polynomials
5.7 Dividing Polynomials

Appendix A.2 Synthetic Division

Chapter 6 Factoring Polynomials and Solving Quadratic Equations
6.1 Greatest Common Factor and Factoring by Grouping
6.2 Special Factoring Techniques I
6.3 Special Factoring Techniques II
6.4 Solving Quadratic Equations by Factoring