ST. PETERSBURG COLLEGE

APPROVED COURSE OUTLINE

MAT    0024                                   ELEMENTARY ALGEBRA                                              4      

                                                          Prefix   Number                                         Course Title                                                          Cr.Hrs.

A.     Course Description:

Prerequisite: MAT 0012 or appropriate score on the SPC mathematics placement test. This course is a study of the basic skills and
concepts of elementary algebra from the view of a college student who needs an understanding of basic algebra. Major topics include
language and operations on sets, operations on signed numbers, simple linear equations and inequalities in one variable, operations on
polynomials (including beginning techniques of factoring), integer exponents, brief introduction to radicals, introduction to graphing, and
applications. 62 contact hours.

B.      Major Learning Outcomes:

         1.   The student will demonstrate knowledge of algebraic concepts, properties and terminology when working with the real number system.

               2.  The student will demonstrate mastery of algebraic algorithms relative to subsets of the real numbers, numerical expressions, algebraic
expressions, linear equations and inequalities, quadratic equations and graphing of linear equations by applying the necessary algebraic manipulations.

C.     Course Objectives Stated in Performance Terms:

         1.   The student will demonstrate knowledge of algebraic concepts, properties and terminology when working with the real number system by:

                 a.     using precise mathematical language.

                 b.     recognizing algebraic expressions, like terms, numerical coefficients and polynomials.

                 c.     developing the real number system using sets, introducing irrationals with the radical symbol and integer exponents.

         2.   The student will demonstrate mastery of algebraic algorithms relative to subsets of the real numbers, numerical expressions, algebraic
expressions, linear equations and inequalities, quadratic equations and graphing of linear equations by applying the necessary algebraic
manipulations by:

                 a.     applying the order of operations agreement to computations, including multiple grouping symbols.

                 b.     using algebraic expressions, like terms, numerical coefficients and polynomials.

                 c.     defining and/or recognizing the solution of linear equations in one variable involving rational numbers.

                 d.     solving, graph (on a number line) and checking the solutions of linear equations in one variable involving rational numbers.

                 e.     determining if a linear equation in one variable is a conditional equation, an identity or has no solution.

                 f.      solving literal equations.

                 g.     translating real world problems into linear equations and solve.

                 h.     applying the rules of exponents to algebraic expressions involving integer exponents.

                 i.      using scientific notation in calculations involving very large or very small measurements.

                 j.      solving and/or graphing (on a number line) simple linear inequalities in one variable by applying the properties of inequalities.

                 k.     performing beginning techniques of factoring and other operations on polynomials including simple quadratics.

                 l.      solving equations by factoring.

                 m.    calculating the slope of the line passing through two given points.

                 n.     graphing linear equations in two variables by plotting points, by the intercept method and by the slope-intercept method.

o.     simplifying, multiplying and dividing rational expressions.

p.     simplifying, adding, subtracting, and multiplying radicals.

D.     Criteria Performance Standard:

Upon successful completion of the course the student will, with a minimum of 70% accuracy, demonstrate mastery of each of the above stated
objectives through classroom measures developed by individual course instructors and pass the State exit exam.

E.      Rationale:

The additional weekly meeting time will allow instructors additional time to introduce new concepts and present algebraic material in depth, to
incorporate collaborative learning exercises into the classroom, to increase assessments, and to include instruction on study skills, time
management skills, and math/test anxiety issues.  The enhanced learning experience is expected to increase retention rates, lower rates of
repetition of Elementary Algebra, and produce higher passing rates on the State exit exam.  The 4 credit-hour designation also brings this course
into alignment with the other developmental courses taught at SPC. (11/28/06 C&I)