MATH 021 - Introductory Algebra for Precalculus

Credits: 5
LEC hours per week: 5
This introductory algebra course prepares students for the corequisite Precalculus I course pair. The course focuses on developing and applying numeric, algebraic, graphic, and metacognitive skills necessary for success in MATH 041. Credit can be earned for only one of these courses: CAP 021, HSC 021, or MATH 021.
Prerequisite(s): Grade of C or higher in MATH 014, CAP 014, HSC 014, or AMATH 106, appropriate placement, or permission of the Mathematics or Transitional Studies Department.
Course Outcomes:

Use decimal place value to read and order numbers on a number line.
Convert between decimal and scientific notation.
Calculate with and convert between decimals, fractions, and percentages and interpret their significance in a variety of contexts.
Use dimensional analysis to convert units of time, length, area, volume, and speed.
Use Order of Operations to evaluate expressions including those with fractions, square roots, absolute value, and integer exponents.
Translate between simple word phrases and mathematical notation, using variables to represent quantities where necessary.
Evaluate a formula given a list of variable values.
Solve single variable linear equations and proportions.
Solve linear inequalities and graph their solutions on the number line.
Solve multivariable equations or formulae for a given variable.
Read and interpret graphs, charts, and tables.
Create and use the graphs of points and lines in the plane.
Generate an equation of a line given sufficient characteristics.
Create, use, and interpret linear models in a variety of authentic settings.
Model with and solve systems of two linear equations in two variables.
Add, subtract, multiply, and simplify polynomial expressions.
Apply Polya’s four-step problem-solving process.
Solve quadratic equations.
Factor trinomials and special products.
Simplify square root expressions.
Use technology as a tool for calculating and graphing.
Explain the difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset.
Practice productive struggle to creatively solve problems, enhance metacognition, and strengthen independent learning.

Course Topics:

Decimal place value and the number line
Integer exponents and scientific notation
Proportions and percentages
Unit conversion
Square roots
Absolute value
Variables and formulas
Solving equations
Linear inequalities
Linear equations and lines
Graphs
Systems of two linear equations
Polynomial addition, subtraction, and multiplication
Quadratic equations
Trinomials
Problem-solving skills
Study skills and mindset

Course Attribute(s): None