Mathematics 125
I. Course Title: Precalculus I (GE)
II. Course Number: MATH 125
III. Credit Hours: 3 credits
IV. Prerequisites: None
V. Course Description:
An introductory course for students who will pursue more advanced mathematics courses or in degree programs that require a solid foundation in mathematics. The focus is on linear, quadratic, algebraic, exponential, and logarithmic functions and their graphs. Applications include simple linear models, linear systems, optimization with quadratic functions, and problem solving in finance such as compound interest and annuities. Calculators and/or Excel will be used in problem solving.
Note(s): Foundational Mathematics and General Education designated course. Will not satisfy the requirements for a major in mathematics. Credit for MATH 125 may not be received after receiving credit for a MATH course numbered higher than 125 or for MATH 119 unless required by a degree program.
VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:
The course will cover the following topics:
1. Algebra review
- a. Exponents
- b. Radicals
- c. Factoring
- d. Rational expressions, including monomials, polynomials, and algebraic fractions
2. Functions and their graphs
- a. Domain and range
- b. Operations of functions, including composition
- c. Transformations among graphical, tabular, and symbolic forms of functions
- d. Linear functions, including parallel and perpendicular lines
- e. Absolute value, piecewise functions, and step functions
- f. Polynomials
- g. Rational functions
- h. Algebraic functions
- i. Exponential functions
- j. One-to-one mappings and inverse functions, including logarithmic functions
3. Solving equations and inequalities
- a. Linear systems
- b. Nonlinear systems including quadratic equations
4. Mathematical modeling
- a. Linear models
- b. Quadratic models, including optimization of quadratic models
- c. Direct and inverse variation
5. Mathematics of finance
- a. Simple interest
- b. Compound interest
- c. Annuities and mortgages
VII. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:
Instructors will emphasize applications to business and science. Most instructors will use the lecture method; some may require students to work together in small groups. Calculators and/or computers will be used both inside and outside class. In all sections, students will be expected to work problems assigned as homework.
VIII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:
Students will develop the basic foundational skills in mathematics needed to advance to courses in mathematics or other disciplines that require these skills.
Students will be able to:
- Translate information among various mathematical forms (e.g., equations, graphs, diagrams, tables, words).
- Successfully solve problems using appropriate mathematical tools.
- Draw appropriate conclusions based on mathematical evidence.
IX. Assessment Measures:
Graded tasks may include homework, computer projects, quizzes and written exams; they may also include group projects and written or oral class participation.
Review and Approval
August 2020
March 01, 2021