Course Outline for Prealgebra

Course Description
MA 050. Prealgebra . 3 hours credit. This course will enable the student to gain
confidence with the use of basic arithmetic, variables, negatives numbers , algebraic
expressions, and techniques for solving equations . The student will improve study
habits leading to success in the sequence of algebra courses.

Course Relevance
The concepts learned in this course will build problem solving skills that are critical to
everyday living. These concepts develop a solid foundation for continued math success.

Required Materials
MA 050 Textbook:
Wright, F. D. (2002). Prealgebra (3^rd ed.). Murray, UT: Hawkes Publishing.

Scientific calculator

MA 050 online materials:
Adventure Learning Systems Courseware , Prealgebra.

Learning Outcomes
The intention is for the student to be able to
1. Use study skills and problem solving to be successful in his/her future learning
2. Perform mathematical procedures and techniques correctly
3. Develop basic algebraic concepts to begin the algebraic course sequence

Primary Learning PACT Skills that will be DEVELOPED and/or documented in this
course

Through the student’s involvement in this course, he/she will develop his/her ability in
the following primary PACT skill areas:

1. Problem Solving
• Through the solution of multi -step problems, the student will gain perseverance
and confidence in his/her problem solving ability.
• Through the solution of word problems, the student will gain experience in
solving real world problems.

Secondary skills (developed but not documented):
Self - Concept
Time Management
Listening
Reading

Major Summative Assessment Task(s)
These learning outcomes and the primary Learning PACT skills will be demonstrated by
1. Solution of multi-step problems that require course comprehensive knowledge
2. Solution of word problems that require course comprehensive knowledge

Course Content
I. Themes – Key recurring concepts that run throughout this course:
A. The use of real numbers
B. Solving equations
C. Simplifying algebraic expressions
D. Problem solving

II. Issues – Key areas of conflict that must be understood in order to achieve the
intended outcome:
A. Math anxiety
B. Test taking anxiety
C. Time management
D. Preparations
E. Study skills

III. Concepts – Key concepts that must be understood to address the issues :
A. Basic arithmetic skills
B. Individual responsibility and commitment

IV. Skills/Competencies – Actions that are essential to achieve the course outcomes:
A. Basic arithmetic skills
B. Solving equations
C. Operations with real numbers
D. Operations with fractions and integers

Learning Units
I. Whole numbers and exponents
A. Operations with whole numbers
B. Rounding and estimating
C. Applications
D. Solving equations
E. Exponents and order of operations
F. Evaluating polynomials

II. Integers
A. Introduction to integers
B. Addition and subtraction
C. Multiplication and division
D. Order of operations
E. Applications
F. Combining like terms
G. Evaluating polynomials
H. Solving equations

III. Prime numbers and fractions
A. Testing for divisibility
B. Prime numbers
C. Prime factorization
D. Least common multiple
E. Reducing and multiplication with fractions
F. Division with fractions
G. Solving equations

IV. Fractions with mixed numbers
A. Addition and Subtraction
B. Introduction to mixed numbers
C. Multiplication and division
D. Solving equations
E. Ratios and proportions

V. Decimal numbers and square roots
A. Reading, writing, and rounding decimals
B. Adding and subtracting decimals
C. Multiplying and dividing decimals
D. Combining fractions and decimals
E. Solving equations with decimals
F. Square roots and Pythagorean theorem

VI. Percent
A. Understanding percent
B. Solving percent problems

VII. Algebraic tools
A. Translating English phrases into algebraic expressions
B. Solving equations with variables on both sides

Learning Activities
Classroom: Independent and collaborative learning activities will be assigned within and
outside the classroom to assist the student to achieve the intended learning outcomes.
Class discussion, lecture, manipulatives, and reading assignments will also contribute to
the learning process.

Online: The following online teaching/learning activities will assist the student to
achieve course outcomes: posted web pages, threaded discussions, written
assignments, assigned reading, interactive CD assignments, and interaction with
instructor and other students through e-mail and discussion boards.

Grade Determination

Grade determination will be based on assessment tasks and other activities such
as exams, assignments, or attendance that the instructor identifies in the syllabus.