Skagit Valley College

Catalog Course Search Details

 Course Title:   Precalculus I

 Title Abbreviation:   PRECALCULUS I

 Department:    MATH&

 Course #:    141

 Credits:    5

 Variable:     No

 IUs:    5

 CIP:    270101

 EPC:    n/a

 REV:    2018


 Course Description  

This course covers fundamental topics of algebra, including: polynomials, exponential and logarithmic functions, and their graphs; system of equations; inequalities; and curve sketching. A graphing calculator may be required.

 Prerequisite  

Prerequisite: MATH 099 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 Natural Sciences, Quantitative  

Equivalencies At Other Institutions

Other Institution Equivalencies Table
Institution Course # Remarks
CWU 163.1
OTHER Meets GUR at 3 BIS
U of W 120 With 111 only
WSU 107 When transfering with 112
WWU 114

Learning Outcomes

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

  1. Define a function including domain and range.
  2. Graph quadratic, polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions.
  3. Recognize and apply transformations of functions.
  4. Use distance and slope formulas.
  5. Find composite and inverse functions.
  6. Find the equation of a line; find the equation of a circle.
  7. Use synthetic division.
  8. Find real and complex zeros of a polynomial.
  9. Solve equations involving logarithmic and exponential functions.
  10. Use a graphing calculator to explore new graphs.
  11. Apply alternative mathematical techniques, from a historical perspective where appropriate.
  12. Understand how mathematics is used in other fields and occupations.
  13. Understand the use of mathematics cross-culturally.

General Education Learning Values & Outcomes

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

1. Information Literacy

Definition: Recognizing when information is needed and have the ability to locate, evaluate, and use effectively the needed information.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
1.1 Determine the extent of information needed.
1.2 Access the needed information effectively, efficiently, ethically, and legally.

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.
2.3 Identify, interpret, and evaluate pertinent data and previous experience to reach conclusions.

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.

9. Scientific Literacy

Definition: Understanding scientific principles, and analyzing and applying scientific information in a variety of contexts.

Outcomes: Students will be able to . . .
9.2 Demonstrate their understanding of the principles of scientific methods, analysis, and reasoning.

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. Real number system
  2. Exponents and radicals
  3. Algebraic expressions
  4. Equations and inequalities
  5. Coordinate system in two dimensions
  6. Equations of lines
  7. Quadratic functions
  8. Composite and inverse functions
  9. Graphs of polynomial functions
  10. Synthetic division
  11. Zeros of polynomials
  12. Exponential and logarithmic functions
  13. Systems of equations with more than two variables