MAT092

Algebra 1

Students move through a series of content modules using a mastery learning approach, making extensive use of computer software for content delivery, practice of skills, and assessment (graded homework, quizzes, and module pre- and post-tests). Topics include simplifying variable expressions, solving linear equations and inequalities, graphing linear equations in two variables, solving systems of linear equations in two variables, operations with exponential pressions and polynomials, factoring polynomials, simplifying radical expressions (square roots), and solving quadratic equations. Prerequisite: MAT 091 or by placement.

Course Learning Outcomes:

1. Use the Order of Operations Agreement to evaluate numerical expressions involving rational numbers or to simplify complex variable expressions
2. Solve linear equations or inequalities in one variable that may include variable or constant terms on both sides of the equation (or inequality) or may include expressions in parentheses.
3. Graph open, closed, or half-open intervals of real number solutions of linear inequalities on a number line
4. Solve compound inequalities in one variable
5. Combine two polynomials using addition, subtraction, or multiplication, expressing the simplified result in descending order
6. Simplify exponential expressions (with integer exponents) involving multiplication, division, or raising a monomial to a power, expressing the answers in a form that uses only positive integers as exponents
7. Convert given numbers from scientific notation to standard decimal form or from standard decimal form to scientific notation
8. Completely factor a polynomial using appropriate combinations of factoring techniques, or state that a given polynomial is non-factorable (prime).
9. Draw the graph of a line when given its equation in either standard form (Ax + By = C) or in slope-intercept form (y = mx + b)
10. Solve a system of two linear equations in two variables using the Graphing Method, the Substitution Method, or the Addition/Elimination Method, as appropriate, or identify that the system is Inconsistent (with no solution), or Dependent (with many solutions)
11. Write numerical square root expressions (involving a single radical or addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division of radical expressions) in their simplest radical form, rationalizing any denominators
12. Solve a quadratic equation by using factoring or taking square roots or using the Quadratic Formula, as appropriate, writing the solutions in simplest form or indicating that there are no real roots if the solutions include square roots of negative radicands
13. Use the Pythagorean Theorem to calculate the length of the remaining side of a right triangle when given the lengths of any two sides, expressing the final answer in simplest radical form if it is not an integer.

Effective Term: Fall 2025

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