Intermediate Algebra

COURSE OBJECTIVES:

MAT 1033 or its equivalent (2 years of HS algebra) is a prerequisite for all credit mathematics courses.
This course reviews elementary algebra, linear equations and functions, factoring, rational expressions,
radicals and exponents, and introduces systems of equations and quadratic equations. See below for
specific topics covered.

TESTS AND GRADING:

A: 90 – 100
B: 80 – 89
C: 70 – 79
D: 60 – 69
F: 0 – 59

Four major tests will be given during the semester, leading up to a cumulative final exam. Tentative test
dates are given below. Expect weekly quizzes, which may be in-class assignments, take-home tests, or
attendance checks.

Quizzes count for 25% of your final grade, tests for 50%, and the final exam for 25%. In other words, your
final grade is (25Q + 50T + 25X)/100, where Q is your quiz average, T is your test average, and X is your
final exam score.

There are no makeup quizzes, although your lowest quiz grade will be dropped.

Tests can only be made up if prior arrangements are made with the instructor. Unexcused test absences will
count as a zero. If you will have to miss a test due to illness, family emergency, or school function, let me
know as soon as possible. The makeup test will necessarily be more difficult than the normal test.

TENTATIVE TEST DATES:

Test 1 (1.1, 1.3, 1.4, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5a): Sept. 12 (MW), Sept. 13 (TR)
Test 2 (3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.6, 3.7, 4.1, 4.2, 4.4): Oct. 10 (MW), Oct. 11 (TR)
Test 3 (5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4a, 5.5, 5.6, 5.7, 6.1, 6.2, 6.3, 6.5, 6.6): Nov. 14 (MW), Nov. 13 (TR)
Test 4: (7.1, 7.2, 7.3, 7.4, 8.1, 8.2): Dec. 5 (MW), Dec. 6 (TR)

Final Exam:

MW 8.00am: Dec 12, 8.00am – 10.00am
TR 2.00: Dec 13, 12.20pm – 2.20pm
HCC: final class meeting (Dec 12)

CLASS POLICIES:

Please turn off cell phones during class. I will deduct points for interruptions.

Attendance is mandatory. There are no excused absences. You are responsible for all work and material
you miss. See “NFCC Attendance Policy” on the Postscript for more info.

Academic dishonesty in any form (cheating, unauthorized notes, plagiarizing, collusion, etc) will not be
tolerated.U See the Student Handbook for more information.

TOPICS COVERED

I. Introductory Algebra Review
a. The real number system and properties thereof
b. Variable expressions
c. Converting verbal to variable expressions and vice versa

II. First-Degree Equations and Inequalities
a. Solving degree 1 equations w/ applications
b. Degree 1 inequalities
c. Absolute value equations

III. Linear functions
a. Introduction to functions
b. Linear functions and graphs: slopes, parallel and perpendicular
lines
c. Inequalities in two variables

IV. Systems of Linear Equations
a. Solving systems of equations
b. Applications of systems of equations
c. Systems of Linear Inequalities

V. Polynomials
a. Exponential expressions
b. Polynomial functions
c. Multiplication of polynomials
d. Division of a polynomial by a monomial
e. Factoring polynomials

VI. Rational expressions
a. Arithmetic of rational functions
b. Compound Fractions
c. Rational Equations
d. Variation

VII. Radicals
a. Rational exponents
b. Operations on rational exponents
c. Solving equations with radical expressions
d. Complex numbers

VIII. Quadratic Equations
a. Solving quadratic equations by factoring
b. Completing the square
 

SYLLABUS POSTSCRIPT

Disabilities

NFCC is dedicated to the concept of equal opportunity. Students with documented disabilities are
encouraged to arrange for needs before the beginning of each semester. Accommodations and
modifications will be made after the student registers with the Office for Student Disability
Services and after providing appropriate documentation of a disability. After registering, the
instructor may be involved in providing accommodations in order to equalize the educational
experience. Please call 973-9484 (voice) or 973-1682 (voice) or 973-1611 (TTY) for more
information.

Student Ombudsman

The Office of Ombuds/Advocate facilitates understanding, communication, and conflict
resolution between students and instructors and other members of the college community without
engaging in the formal grievance procedures. The Ombuds can listen impartially and
confidentially to complaints, explain policies and procedures, and assist finding a solution. The
mission of the Ombudsman is to ensure that all students receive fair and equitable treatment at
NFCC.

NFCC OO/A can be reached at 850-973-9484.

NFCC Attendance Policy

Students are encouraged to attend class. A total of two absences per clock hour of weekly course
meeting time are allowed in a class. The following table is applicable:

MW or TR (1.5 clock hours per meeting each day) : 4 allowed absences

Instructors may withdraw a student from the course after the maximum number of allowable
absences is exceeded. A written warning is issued prior to withdrawal.

Library Services

The Marshall Hamilton Library at NFCC is open for student use according to the following
schedule:

Monday – Wednesday 8.00am – 5.30pm
Thursday 8.00am – 4.30pm

Email

All NFCC students will be provided an email account through D2L, NFCC’s learning
management system, and this will be the official email address used by faculty and staff for
communication with students. Email addresses and instructions for accessing the email will be
provided within the first two weeks of classes each semester, and students are expected to check
this email on a regular basis.