Skagit Valley College

Catalog Course Search Details

 Course Title:   Intermediate Algebra I

 Title Abbreviation:   INTERMEDIATE ALGEBRA I

 Department:    MATH

 Course #:    98

 Credits:    5

 Variable:     No

 IUs:    5

 CIP:    n/a

 EPC:    n/a

 REV:    2018


 Course Description  

This is the first course in intermediate algebra, building on topics introduced in math 097. Topics include: integer and rational exponents, polynomials and operations with polynomials, factoring polynomials, solving quadratic equations by: factoring, the square root method, completing the square and the quadratic formula; graphing quadratic and exponential functions, modeling with polynomial and exponential functions. A non-CAS graphing calculator is required.

 Prerequisite  

Prerequisite: MATH 097 with a grade of C or higher, or equivalent math placement score.

Additional Course Details

Contact Hours (based on 11 week quarter)

Lecture: 55

Lab: 0

Other: 0

Systems: 0

Clinical: 0


Intent: Distribution Requirement(s) Status:  

Academic N/A  

Equivalencies At Other Institutions

Other Institution Equivalencies Table
Institution Course # Remarks
N/A

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, the student will be able to:

  1. Perform basic operations with polynomials, including
    • Addition and subtraction of polynomials.
    • Multiplication of polynomials.
    • Division of polynomials (long and synthetic division)
  2. Factor polynomials.
  3. Solve polynomial equations by factoring.
  4. Work with quadratic functions by
    • graphing with the vertex form
    • graphing with the standard form
    • determining the vertex and intercepts
  5. Solve a system of linear equations in three variables.
  6. Simplify radical expressions.
  7. Solve quadratic equations using the
    • Square root method
    • Completing the square method
    • Quadratic formula
  8. Work with exponential functions by
    • Graphing exponential functions
    • Finding the equation of exponential models.
  9. Demonstrate an understanding of mathematical modeling by
    • Determining a quadratic model.
    • Determining an exponential model.
  10. Solve applications relevant to course content.

General Education Learning Values & Outcomes

Revised August 2008 and affects outlines for 2008 year 1 and later.

2. Critical Thinking

Definition: The ability to think critically about the nature of knowledge within a discipline and about the ways in which that knowledge is constructed and validated and to be sensitive to the ways these processes often vary among disciplines.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
2.1 Identify and express concepts, terms, and facts related to a specific discipline.

8. Mathematical Reasoning

Definition: Understanding and applying concepts of mathematics and logical reasoning in a variety of contexts, both academic and non-academic.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
8.1 Analyze problems to determine what mathematical principles apply.
8.2 Correctly apply logical reasoning and mathematical principles to solve problems.
8.3 Interpret information and reasoning expressed mathematically (for example in spreadsheets, diagrams, charts, formulas, etc.).
8.4 Communicate mathematical information effectively.

10. Technology

Definition: Understanding the role of technology in society and using technology appropriately and effectively.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
10.3 Use technology appropriate to the context and task to effectively retrieve and manage information, solve problems, and facilitate communication.

Course Contents

  1. Polynomials
    • Addition, Subtraction, and Multiplication
    • Division (long and synthetic division)
  2. Factoring polynomials
    • Greatest Common Factor
    • By grouping
    • Difference of two squares
    • Sum and difference of two cubes
  3. Solve polynomial equations by factoring
  4. Exponents
    • Integer exponents and their properties
    • Rational exponents and their properties
  5. Mathematical modeling
    • Determining a quadratic equation
    • Determining an exponential equation
  6. Solving quadratic equations
    • Factoring
    • Square root method
    • Completing the square
    • Quadratic formula
  7. Quadratic functions
    • Graphing using the vertex form
    • Graphing using the standard form
    • Determining the vertex and intercepts
  8. Exponential functions
    • Graphing exponential functions
    • Finding the equation of an exponential function
  9. Solving systems of equations in three variables