MAT 090 - Algebra Fundamentals

Credits: 4
4 Lecture Hours

Prerequisites: MAT 080 Minimum grade C

Description
A course in the fundamentals of algebra. Included are such topics as the real number system; operations on polynomial expressions containing variables; word problems; special products and factoring; solution sets of equations and inequalities in one variable. Included also are rational expressions and introduction to the rectangular coordinate system. Students must earn a “C” grade or better to register for the next course in this discipline or to use this course as a prerequisite for a course in another discipline.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the course, the student will:

Simplify numerical expression involving rational numbers.
Perform operations and evaluate polynomial expressions.
Solve linear equations, literal equations, and linear inequalities in one variable.
Solve application problems leading to linear equations in one variable.
Graph linear equations in two variables by plotting solutions (using a graphing tool is optional).
Factor polynomial expressions.
Simplify rational expressions and solve rational equations.
Apply the Pythagorean theorem.

Listed Topics

Real number system, order of operations with rational numbers, and evaluating algebraic expressions
Operations on polynomial expressions including special products and factoring
Linear equations in one variable, linear inequalities in one variable and literal equations in one variable
Linear equations in two variables
Operations on rational expressions

Reference Materials
Each student is required to have a calculator and a textbook adopted by the Mathematics Department at the specific campus. If available, students may purchase a student solutions manual or make use of the interactive software and video tapes located in the math laboratory or Learning Center.

Approved By: Sutin, Stewart Date Approved: 07/13/2006

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MAT 090 - Algebra Fundamentals