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Precalculus Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Study Guide - Smart Notes

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Course Overview

Course Description

This course provides an in-depth analysis of functions and their graphs, including inverse functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, theory of equations, conic sections, circular functions and their graphs, trigonometric identities, and conditional equations. Additional topics include solutions of triangles, trigonometric form of complex numbers, DeMoivre’s Theorem, parametric and polar equations. The course is structured to prepare students for Calculus I (MATH 1910).

  • Prerequisites: ACT ≥ 25 or high school trigonometry or MATH 1710 with a grade of “C” or higher.

  • Co-requisites: None specified.

Course Objectives

The primary objective is to prepare students for advanced courses that use exponential, logarithmic, or trigonometric functions, as well as Calculus I. Students will develop a deeper understanding of functions, equations, and mathematical reasoning.

Student Learning Objectives

  • Mathematical Literacy: Improve ability to read and interpret mathematical material.

  • Mathematical Language: Use correct mathematical language and symbols.

  • Problem-Solving: Enhance problem-solving skills.

  • Function Concepts: Understand the definition and meaning of the function concept.

  • Trigonometric Functions: Understand the definitions and use of trigonometric functions in terms of the unit circle.

  • Inverse Functions: Understand the derivation and use of inverse functions.

  • Applications: Use trigonometry to solve application problems involving triangles.

  • Identities: Use identities to write trigonometric expressions in alternative forms.

  • Equation Solving: Solve equations involving trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions.

Course Topics

  • Chapter 1: Graphs and Functions

  • Chapter 2: Polynomial and Rational Functions

  • Chapter 3: Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

  • Chapter 4: Trigonometric Functions

  • Chapter 5: Analytic Trigonometry

  • Chapter 6: Additional Topics in Trigonometry

  • Chapter 7: Systems of Equations and Inequalities

  • Chapter 8: Conic Sections

  • Chapter 9: Sequences, Series, and Probability

Course Requirements

Textbooks

  • The digital textbook and online homework subscription are required. Access is provided through the "First Day" program unless opted out.

Supplementary Materials

  • A graphing calculator is required. Recommended models: TI-84 or TI-83. Other models (e.g., TI-89, TI-92) are not allowed.

  • Calculators may be available for borrowing from the library or cultural center.

Participation, Assessments & Grading

Exams

  • Three in-class midterm exams (100 points each).

  • Final exam (150 points).

  • Exams cover all material from the semester.

Assignments

  • Homework and in-class group activities are assigned regularly.

  • Lowest two homework scores are dropped; total homework is 100 points.

Grade Calculation

Component

Points

Homework

100

Test 1

100

Test 2

100

Test 3

100

Final Exam

150

Total

550

Letter Grades

Points

Letter Grade

495 - 550

A

440 - 495

B

385 - 440

C

330 - 385

D

Under 330

F

Class Policies

Attendance

  • Attendance and active participation are important and may affect your grade.

  • If you cannot attend, notify the instructor and provide documentation if needed.

Class Participation

  • Students are expected to conduct themselves appropriately and respectfully.

  • Academic or classroom misconduct will not be tolerated.

University Policies

  • Minors (non-students under 18) are not permitted in the classroom.

  • Service animals are permitted as per university policy.

Students with Disabilities

  • Contact the Disability Resource Center for accommodations.

Technical Support

  • APSU Help Desk: (931) 221-HELP (4357) or helpdesk@apsu.edu

  • Distance Education Helpdesk: (931) 221-6625 or d2lhelp@apsu.edu

Additional Information

  • Independent critical reasoning is emphasized.

  • Collaboration is allowed, but all submitted work must be your own.

  • Use all resources appropriately and cautiously.

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