[MAT 091] Elementary Algebra

Introduction

This course is suitable for any student who needs to build algebra skills before entering the math courses that earn college-level credits. Students may need this course because they have simply never had the chance to study algebra before. Students may have had algebra in high school several years ago and need to rediscover skills they used to have. Other students may be more recently out of high school but, for various reasons, their scores on the UWC Math Placement Exam suggest that they need the Elementary Algebra course.

Regardless of the student's individual background, this course will build and improve the skills necessary for success in a future algebra course. These skills include only three basic types of tasks: evaluate variable expressions, solve equations, and simplify variable expressions. In fact, all algebra courses work on these same skills, only increasing the level of difficulty. If students can master these three skills, and consistently perform them accurately, they will be well positioned for success in their next course.

The key to learning in an online course in Elementary Algebra is the same for every math student: practice. This means, of course, that students must do the assigned homework. Students learn math best by doing math; the more they practice, the better they will get. Students must plan sufficient time to work through the full assignment every week. Through personal motivation, organization, and effort, they can master this subject. Students might even begin to like math more than they ever thought possible.

Description

UW Colleges Catalog Course Description for MAT 091: Elementary Algebra - 3 non-degree credits. Elementary Algebra is intended for students with little or no previous algebra experience. Topics include the real number system, operations with real numbers and algebraic expressions, linear equations and inequalities, polynomials, factoring, and an introduction to quadratic equations. A grade of C or better in Math 091 is required before advancing to Math 105. There is no prerequisite for Elementary Algebra. This is a non-degree credit course.

Proficiencies

Institutional proficiencies assigned to this course

Successful completion of this course will enhance students' ability to

• interpret and synthesize information and ideas;
• select and apply scientific and other appropriate methodologies;
• solve quantitative and mathematical problems;
• interpret graphs, tables, and diagrams;

Department-specific proficiencies assigned to this course

By completing this course, students will

• be able to perform arithmetic calculations on real numbers and understand the order of operations;
• be able to use variable notation and be able to simplify and evaluate algebraic expressions;
• be able to solve linear equations in one variable;
• know the rules of exponents as applied to variable terms;
• be able to add, subtract, and multiply polynomials;
• know how to factor polynomials using greatest common factoring, the grouping method, trinomial factoring, and difference of perfect squares;
• be able to graph linear equations with two variables in the rectangular coordinate system.

Requirements

Students must be able to use Equation Editor and Drawing (in Microsoft Word) to assist with correct mathematical notation on assignments.

Software

• Microsoft Word with Equation Editor.

  The most current edition of MS Office (containing MS Word and Word's Equation Editor and other valuable programs) is available to University of Wisconsin students at discounted prices through the Wisconsin Integrated Software Catalog.

About the Instructors

• LaVerne Harrison
  Senior Lecturer, Mathematics
  BS, University of Wisconsin-Madison
  MAT, Adams State College
  
• Janette Miller
  Lecturer, Mathematics
  BS, University of Arkansas
  MSE, University of Arkansas