MATHEMATICS FOR BUSINESS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES I

Text College Mathematics for Business, Economics, Life Sciences, and Social Sciences, 11^th edition, by Barnett, Ziegler,
and Byleen

Course Description A survey of finite mathematics and its application to problems in business and the natural and social
sciences. The course begins with a review of linear equations , functions, and graphs. It continues with a study of matrices,
systems of linear equations and inequalities, linear programming, quadratic functions , exponential and logarithmic functions,
and the mathematics of finance and concludes with a study of probability and statistics. Graphing calculators (TI-83/84 or
comparable ) are recommended. Applications in business and economics will be emphasized. The course meets three hours
per week.

Prerequisite: MATH 1314

Objectives This course covers functions, matrices, and statistics as they apply to business, economics, life sciences, and
social sciences. Students will use these math skills to solve application problems related to these fields. The student must
demonstrate an understanding of the topics covered through testing.

Course Outline
A. Beginning Library of Elementary Functions
1. Functions
2. Elementary Functions: Graphs and Transformations
3. Quadratic Functions
4. Exponential Functions
5. Logarithmic Functions

B. Mathematics of Finance
1. Simple Interest
2. Compound and Continuous Compound Interest
3. Future Value of an Annuity ; Sinking Funds
4. Present Value of an Annuity; Amortization

C. Systems of Linear Equations; Matrices
1. Review: Systems of Linear Equations in Two Variables
2. Systems of Linear Equations and Augmented Matrices
3. Gauss-Jordan Elimination
4. Matrices: Basic Operations
5. Inverse of a Square Matrix
6. Matrix Equations and Systems of Linear Equations
7. Leontief Input–Output Analysis

D. Linear Inequalities and Linear Programming
1. Inequalities in Two Variables
2. Systems of Linear Inequalities in Two Variables
3. Linear Programming in Two Dimensions: A Geometric Approach

E. Linear Programming a Simplex Method
1. A Geometric Introduction to the Simplex Method
2. Simplex Method: Maximization with Problem Constraints of the Form ≤
3. Dual Problem: Minimization with Problem Constraints of the Form ≥

F. Logic, Sets, and Counting
1. Logic (optional)
2. Sets (optional)
3. Basic Counting Principles
4. Permutations and Combinations

G. Probability
1. Sample Spaces, Events, and Probability
2. Union, Intersection, and Complement of Events; Odds
3. Conditional Probability, Intersection, and Independence
4. Bayes’ Formula
5. Random Variable, Probability Distribution, and Expected Value

H. Markov Chains (optional)
1. Properties of Markov Chains
2. Regular Markov Chains
3. Absorbing Markov Chains

End of Course Assessment Exam:
An assessment exam will be administered at the end of the semester. The exam will be a minimum of 5% of the course grade.

Methods of Evaluation
1. Homework
2. Quizzes
3. Exams
4. End of Course Assessment Exam
5. Comprehensive Final Exam

Grading System

Attendance Regular attendance in class is expected. If an absence is unavoidable, the student is responsible for completing
all work missed during the absence. Any work missed and not completed may affect the grade of the student regardless of the
reason for the absence. Your instructor may initiate administrative withdrawal for a student who exceeds course absence
standards (6 hours). Withdrawal from class may affect enrollment in other courses, insurance eligibility, financial aid, and/or
veteran’s benefits. It should be noted that ceasing to attend class does not terminate enrollment . Therefore, a student who
ceases to attend class without officially withdrawing from that class may receive a failing grade.

Classroom Behavior It is expected that students will behave in a mature and courteous manner. Disruptive behavior during
class will not be tolerated. Students are expected to be attentive, take notes, ask pertinent questions, arrive on time, and not
leave until the class is dismissed. Conflicts which arise between the scheduled class time and the student’s personal schedule
must be resolved by the student.

Learning Lab/Library Tutoring is offered to students enrolled in MATH 1324 during posted hours in the Learning Lab.
The Library and Learning Lab have a copy of the Instructor Solutions Manual (fully worked solutions to all textbook
exercises).

MyMathLab® MyLathLab® (internet) is a text-specific online course to help you succeed in learning. MyMathLab®
contains MathXL® (an online homework, tutorial, and assessment system that is packaged with the textbook when a new
textbook is purchased). Students can take chapter tests and receive personalized study plans based on their results. The study
plan diagnoses weaknesses and links students to tutorial exercises for objectives they need to study. Students can also access
video clips from selected exercises.

Academic Honesty A student found guilty of scholastic dishonesty is subject to disciplinary action. Violations such as
plagiarism, cheating on tests, and collusion are described in the ACC Student Handbook. Consequences are at the discretion
of the instructor and range from receiving zero on the assignment /test to failing the course to expulsion from Alvin
Community College.

Camcorders Camcorders and any other video recording devices are prohibited in the classroom. Audio may be allowed
ONLY WITH THE PERMISSION OF THE INSTRUCTOR.

Cellular phones Cell phones are not to be used and are not to ring during the class. Cell phones are not to be out during
tests. If there are special circumstances, arrangements must be made with the instructor.

ADA Compliance: Alvin Community College will adhere to all applicable federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and
guidelines with respect to providing reasonable accommodations as required to afford equal educational opportunity. It is the
policy of ACC to provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals who are students with disabilities. It is the
student’s responsibility to contact the Counseling Center in a timely manner to arrange for appropriate accommodations.