Nov 21, 2024  
2024-2025 WWCC College Catalog 
    
2024-2025 WWCC College Catalog

MATH& 141 - Precalculus I


Credits: 5
LEC hours per week: 5
MATH& 141 is the first in a series of two courses designed to give students an in-depth understanding of functions and to prepare students for calculus. Graphical analysis of concepts is emphasized through the use of technology.
Prerequisite(s): Course requires concurrent enrollment in MATH 041  OR having met one of the following prerequisites: grade of P in MATH 041 ; grade of C or higher in MATH 079 , MATH 080 , or MATH 080 F; appropriate placement; or permission of the Mathematics Department.
Course Outcomes:
  • Solve equations involving polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic expressions through analytic and graphical techniques.
  • Analyze polynomial, root, rational, piecewise, exponential, and logarithmic functions, along with their domains, graphs, transformations, compositions, and inverses (where applicable).
  • Interpret inequalities involving polynomial and rational expressions through analytic and graphical techniques.
  • Construct appropriate functions to model and solve contextual problems.
  • Access and use technology as needed.
  • Communicate mathematics using relevant vocabulary and notation.
Course Topics:
 

  1. Polynomial, root, rational, piecewise, exponential, and logarithmic functions
  2. Graphs, domain, range, intercepts, extrema, end behavior
  3. Patterns of change and average rate of change
  4. Factoring and roots of polynomials
  5. Complex numbers
  6. Function combinations and composition
  7. Function transformations
  8. Inverse functions
  9. Solving equations and inequalities
  10. Critical use of technology
  11. Creating and using functions to model behaviors
Course Attribute(s): Natural Science, PT Computation/Mathematics, Quantitative