Elementary Algebra Syllabus

Course Syllabus

Course Description
This course covers elementary algebraic topics such as solving linear equations , using
proportions to solve problems, laws of exponents , basic operations with polynomials , scientific
notation, roots and radicals, formulas and applications , and factoring polynomials . Prerequisite:
DSPM 0700 or appropriate placement.

Required Text and Course Materials

Text: Basic Math, Algebra, and Geometry with Applications by Cleaves and Hobbs, Prentice-
Hall, 2004.

Other: A scientific or graphics calculator is required .

Course Outcomes

In the successful completion of this course, the student will:

1. Review integers and basic operations with signed numbers , whole number exponents, and
simplification of numeric expressions using the order of operations.

2. Simplify algebraic expressions by combining like terms .

3. Solve linear equations in one variable.

4. Solve applied problems using linear equations.

5. Solve problems involving direct and inverse variation.

6. Develop proficiency with the laws of exponents .

7. Multiply and divide by powers of 10 and use scientific notation.

8. Recognize polynomials and perform basic operations including addition , subtraction , and
multiplication and division of a polynomial by a monomial .

9. Simplify radical expressions, perform basic operations with square-root radicals, and solve
equations containing a squared variable term or radical term.

10. Write imaginary numbers using the letter i.

11. Use the Pythagorean theorem to find the missing side of a triangle.

12. Evaluate formulas and functions and solve literal equations and formulas for a specified
variable.

13. Develop proficiency in factoring polynomials.

Attendance Policy

The Tennessee Board of Regents requires mandatory attendance for all students in
developmental classes. The following rules apply:

(1) A student may fail a developmental class, regardless of prior course grades, after missing
the equivalent of two weeks of class. Failing a course may adversely affect VA benefits,
financial aid, insurance benefits, dependency status, scholarship eligibility etc. At your
instructor’s discretion, attendance may also be a factor in determining your final course grade.

(2) Individual instructors determine specific make-up policies. Students absent from a
developmental class might not be allowed to make up missed tests, writing assignments, or other
graded work. Missed work will adversely affect final course grade.

ADA Statement

Southwest Tennessee Community College is committed to providing reasonable
accommodations for all qualified individuals with disabilities. It is the responsibility of the
student to contact the Counseling, Advising, and Articulation Center to arrange for appropriate
accommodations. When the disability has been documented and verified, a counselor will
contact the faculty member regarding any special accommodations to be provided.

For more detailed information, refer to the college catalog under the section on
Counseling for students with disabilities.

Misuse of Computers

Computers in Southwest Tennessee’s classrooms, laboratories, and the Academic
Support Center are to be used for educational purposes only.

Effective Date of Syllabus: August, 2004

List of Topics

1. Linear equations
2. Using proportions to solve problems
3. Laws of exponents
4. Basic operations with polynomials
5. Scientific notation
6. Roots and radicals
7. Formulas
8. Applications
9. Factoring polynomials