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MATH 130 Syllabus

Precalculus I

June 2020

Course Description

Functions using multiple representations; linear, exponential, logarithmic, polynomial, and rational functions; compositions, inverses, and combinations of functions; data and modeling, applications. Corequisite: MATH 100. Three semester hours.

Student Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Conceptualize quantities and define variables that are present in a given situation
  • Use multiple representations of functions to interpret and describe how two quantities change together
  • Measure, compute, describe, and interpret rates of change of quantities embedded in multiple representations
  • Effectively communicate with function notation
  • Use appropriate tools and representations to investigate the patterns and relationships present in multiple function types
  • Create, use, compare, and interpret linear, exponential, logarithmic, polynomial, power, and rational functions
  • Construct, use, and describe composition and inverse of functions
  • Model and solve meaningful problems involving algebraic and transcendental functions and equations.
  • Use factoring techniques to simplify expressions and locate roots of functions
  • Use algebraic reasoning to simplify expressions and find roots of equations involving multiple function types

Text

Connally, Hughes-Hallett, Gleason, et.al. Functions Modeling Change: A Preparation for Calculus, (Sixth Edition). John Wiley and Sons, New York, 2019.  

Grading Procedure

Grading procedures and factors influencing course grade are left to the discretion
of individual instructors, subject to general university policy.

Attendance Policy

Attendance policy is left to the discretion of individual instructors, subject to
general university policy.

Course Outline

  • Chapter 1 Linear Functions and Change
    All Sections (2 weeks)
  • Chapter 2 Functions
    Sections 2.2-2.6 (1.5 weeks)
  • Chapter 3 Quadratic Functions
    All Sections (1 week)
  • Chapter 4 Exponential Functions
    All Sections (2.5 weeks)
  • Chapter 5 Logarithmic Functions
    Sections 5.1-5.3 (2 weeks)
  • Chapter 11 Polynomial and Rational Functions
    Sections 11.1-11.5 (2 weeks)
  • Additional Material:
    Visual Limits from Graphs of Functions and Limit Notation (1 week)
    Logistic Functions (1 day)


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