Intermediate Algebra

Prerequisite: MA112 with grade of S, or appropriate placement score.

Course Description: This course prepares students for college level mathematics courses.
Topics include factoring, algebraic fractions, radicals and rational exponents, complex numbers,
quadratic equations, radical equations, linear equations and inequalities in two variables and their
graphs, systems of linear equations, and introduction to functions. Emphasis is placed on
learning to read the language of mathematics in addition to the use of technology.

Textbook: Tobey, Slater, Blair, Beginning and Intermediate Algebra, 2nd edition (Pearson
Prentice Hall). MyMathLab is a requirement.

Course Goal: The main goal of this course is to provide students with a solid foundation in
essential algebraic skills in preparation for success in college level mathematics courses.

BETHUNE-COOKMAN UNIVERSITY MISSION STATEMENT:
The mission is to serve in the Christian tradition the educational social, and cultural needs of its
students—traditional and nontraditional—and to develop in them the desire and capacity for continuous
intellectual and professional growth, leadership and service to others. Institutional priorities in the mission
of the College are teaching, research, community service and commitment to moral and personal values.

IMPACT ON B-CU MISSION AND INSTITUTIONAL STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
(ISLOs)
Through the attainment of the Course Student Learning Objectives (CSLOs), students will acquire
knowledge, skills and competencies outlined in the Institutional Student Learning Outcomes (ISLOs),
School Student Learning Outcomes, (SSLOs) and Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs). The
Course Student Learning Objectives fully support the University Mission and Core Values as stated in
the Strategic Plan, as well as the School Goals.

The Institutional Student Learning Outcomes (ISLOs) include the following:
1. Complex cognitive skills
2. Practical knowledge and competency
3. Appreciation of human differences and commonalities
4. Integrated sense of identity and civic responsibility

FRESHMAN COLLEGE SCHOOL STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES (SSLOs)
ADDRESSED IN THE COURSE OBJECTIVES

Upon completing Freshman College courses, freshmen will apply quantitative reasoning through
the application of knowledge, skills, and competencies when solving math and real life problems
with satisfactory performance on tests, quizzes, exams, and/or other assessments.

MATH AREA PROGRAM STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES (PSLOs) ADDRESSED IN THE
COURSE OBJECTIVES

1. Upon completing Freshman College courses, the student will be able to interpret
mathematical models such as formulas, graphs, tables, and schematics and draw
inferences from them when solving math and/or real life problems with satisfactory
performance on tests, quizzes, exams, and/or other assessments. (PSLO1)
2. Upon completing Freshman College courses, the student will be able to represent
mathematical information symbolically, visually, numerically, and verbally when solving
math and/or real life problems with satisfactory performance on tests, quizzes, exams,
and/or other assessments. (PSLO2)
3. Upon completing Freshman College courses, the student will be able to use a variety of
mathematical methods (algebraic, geometric and/or statistical methods, utilizing
technology when appropriate) when solving math and/or real life problems with
satisfactory performance on tests, quizzes, exams, and/or other assessments. (PSLO3)

ACADEMIC AFFAIRS VISION:
Students will graduate B-CU as transformative leaders with complex cognitive skills; practical
knowledge and competency; an appreciation of human differences; and an integrated sense of
identity and civic responsibility that prepares them to live successfully within a multicultural and
global community.

COURSE STUDENT LEARNING OBJECTIVES AND MEASUREMENTS

1. The Freshman College Intermediate Algebra student will demonstrate knowledge of
the fundamental concepts of algebra when solving and graphing equations and
inequalities. PSLO 1, 2, 3 (exam question/problem demo)
2. The Freshman College Intermediate Algebra student will demonstrate the ability to
perform operations involving radicals, rational expressions, and complex numbers.
3. The Freshman College Intermediate Algebra student will demonstrate understanding of
the concepts of this course by applying knowledge to real world problems.

Assistance: You can obtain assistance for mathematics classes in the Tri-Lab Learning Center
GS-1. There, you will find course-related videotapes and computer software, and tutors that can
help you to successfully complete this course. The Tri-Lab Learning Center hours are located at
You do not need an appointment.The telephone number for the lab is 386-481-2315. If you have
a problem with the Math Lab, please contact your instructor.

Attendance: You are required to attend classes each week. Three or more of unexcused
absences may result in earning an “F” grade.

Classroom Protocol: Please do not bring food or drinks into any classroom or lab. Turn off
any cellular phone. You are expected to arrive on time to class, depart when the class has
concluded, and treat others respectfully. You are encouraged to ask questions. For additional
help or assistance, please see your instructor.

Homework: Homework will be assigned by your instructor and it may not be turned in late.

TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS: MyMathLab software will be used.

TOPICAL OUTLINE TEMPLATE
***See individual instructors’ supplementary outlines for detailed information about courses reflecting
specific learning community themes and assignments and plans unique to individual sections. The course
will include two library research assignments.

Grading: The final grade will be based on the following components:

• A final exam, which is cumulative and must be taken during final exam week on the date
and time designated by the registrar’s office.

Final Grades: In this College Preparatory course, you will earn an S (Satisfactory), NR (No
Record), or F (Failure).

To earn a grade of S you will need to fulfill all of the following requirements:
1. Attend and participate in all lecture classes.
2. Earn 70% grade in all class assignments, activities, exams, and quizzes.
3. Earn a minimum of 70% on the exit test which you must take during final exam week on
the date and time designated by the Office of the Registrar.

To earn a grade of NR you will need to fulfill all of the following requirements:
1. Attend and participate in all lecture classes.
2. Earn 70% grade in all class assignments, activities, exams, and quizzes.
3. Take the exit test which will be given during final exam week on the date and time
designated by the Office of the Registrar.
If a student does not fulfill “S” or “NR” requirements, he/she may earn “F” grade.

Incomplete Policy: The grade of I (Incomplete) is not usually given in this class. If you are not
passing your class, it is not possible for your instructor to give you an “I”. Always talk to your
instructor about any new situation that you may have.

ACADEMIC HONESTY
Students must submit their own work, and they must acknowledge any outside help they had in
preparing an assignment. If anyone copies or paraphrases the words of another writer without
acknowledgement or submits another person’s work as his or her own, that person is guilty of
plagiarism. Evidence of cheating or plagiarism will result in the student receiving a grade of “0”
for the work and may result in an “F” for the course. Plagiarism and cheating are major violations of
the Student Code of Conduct and may result in the student’s indefinite suspension from the college.