BackPrecalculus Syllabus: Algebra & Trigonometry Course Structure, Policies, and Learning Outcomes
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Course Overview
Course Title and Software Requirements
This course is titled Algebra & Trigonometry and utilizes interactive assignments. The required textbook is Algebra & Trigonometry with Interactive Assignments, 4th edition by Trigsted (ISBN-13: 9780134718585). Students will access eText and software for assignments.
Learning Outcomes
Core Mathematical Skills
Upon successful completion, students will demonstrate proficiency in a variety of algebraic and trigonometric concepts:
Rational expressions: Manipulate and simplify rational expressions.
Polynomial and rational inequalities: Solve and analyze inequalities involving polynomials and rational functions.
Functions: Evaluate, define, and compare functions; understand types of functions including polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic.
Graphing: Graph polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions; analyze properties and transformations.
Equations: Solve algebraic, exponential, and logarithmic equations.
Complex numbers: Perform operations and solve equations involving complex numbers.
Sequences and series: Analyze and perform operations on sequences and series.
Trigonometry: Understand and apply trigonometric functions, identities, and equations; solve trigonometric equations and analyze graphs.
Example: To solve a rational inequality such as , determine the critical points and test intervals to find where the inequality holds.
Class Policies and Structure
Attendance Policy
Students are allowed up to three (3) absences without penalty.
Excess absences (over 10 days) may result in automatic failure ('F') for the course.
Attendance is tracked via classroom records and online platforms.
Students must notify the instructor in advance for excused absences due to official university functions.
Homework Assignments
Homework is assigned for each section and is worth a total of 100 points.
Assignments are completed online via the course software (Pearson/MyMathLab).
Homework is due weekly, typically on Fridays by 11:59 p.m.
Late homework may be accepted with a penalty; unsubmitted homework receives a grade of zero.
Lowest two homework scores are dropped at semester end.
Tests and Final Exam
Five major tests are administered during the semester.
No make-up tests are given except for official university functions; rescheduling must be approved in advance.
Final exam is comprehensive, consists of 40 multiple-choice questions, and counts for 200 points.
All students must take the final exam; it cannot be dropped.
Test Coverage
Test | Sections Covered |
|---|---|
Test 1 | R.6, R.7, 1.1, 1.4, 1.9, 1.11, 1.14, 1.16 |
Test 2 | 2.3, 2.4, 3.1, 3.2, 4.1, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5 |
Test 3 | 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4 |
Test 4 | 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, 6.5, 7.1, 7.2 |
Test 5 | 1.4, 8.1, 8.3, 8.7 |
Additional info: Section numbers refer to textbook chapters covering algebraic and trigonometric topics.
Grading Policy
Grade Scale
Grade | Percentage Range | Points Needed |
|---|---|---|
A | 90 - 100% | 601 or above |
A- | 88 - 89.99% | 589 or above |
B+ | 86 - 87.99% | 577 or above |
B | 80 - 85.99% | 541 or above |
B- | 78 - 79.99% | 529 or above |
C+ | 76 - 77.99% | 517 or above |
C | 70 - 75.99% | 481 or above |
C- | 68 - 69.99% | 469 or above |
D | 60 - 67.99% | 421 or above |
F | 0 - 59.99% | 0 or above |
Note: A "T" grade will not be given without permission from the Department of Mathematics.
Calculators and Electronic Devices
Basic 4-function calculators are provided for use on tests and the final exam.
Graphing calculators, cell phones, and other electronic devices are not permitted during tests.
Violation of calculator policy may result in dismissal from the test and a grade of zero.
Academic Integrity and Cheating Policy
Cheating on exams or assignments, including use of prohibited technology or impersonation, is strictly prohibited.
Penalties for cheating may include failure of the course, suspension, or expulsion.
All students must adhere to the university's academic honesty policies.
Student Support and Accessibility
Students with disabilities or academic needs should contact the instructor and the university's accessibility office for accommodations.
Tutoring is available; visit the provided math help website for more information.
Withdrawal Policy
Withdrawal deadline for the semester is Monday, Oct 13, 2025.
Withdrawals after the deadline may result in a failing grade unless due to extenuating circumstances.
Copyright, Fair Use, and Privacy Policies
Students must comply with university policies regarding copyright, fair use, and privacy.
Online identity verification and privacy are enforced for all students.