XSKM 0517F GED: Elementary Algebra

Elementary Algebra will explore algebraic methods for solving a variety of problems. Students will identify and describe patterns using rules, tables, graphs, and equations; compute with signed numbers, rational numbers and exponents; solve linear and quadratic equations; demonstrate the relationship between equations and their graphs; apply algebraic concepts to real world problems; and use appropriate mathematical vocabulary and symbols. Students will develop math strategies and student behaviors that will prepare them for both the GED Mathematical Reasoning test and credit mathematics courses including MTH 095 and above.

Credits

45-55 hours

Course Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1. Apply characteristics of number sets, order of operations and exponent rules to simplify, evaluate, or write expressions, including those involving rational or negative exponents or scientific notation
2. Interpret the meaning of an expression, equation, inequality or system of equations/inequalities in the context of a real world problem, and translate ideas, patterns, and constraints expressed in words into expressions, equations, inequalities, and systems
3. Solve and be able to explain the process of solving a linear equation or inequality in one variable
4. Use the definition of a function to identify functions from their equations or graphs; state the domain and range of a function; use and interpret function notation; and model function relationships between variables using tables, equations, graphs, and other models
5. Solve and graph the solutions to linear equations, linear inequalities, and quadratic equations, understanding that the graph of an equation in two variables is the set of all its solutions plotted in the coordinate plane. Interpret key features of graphs including slope, intercepts, and minimum/maximum. Interpret situations that result in no solution, a range of solutions, and extraneous solutions
6. Solve by graphing and/or algebraic methods and interpret solutions to systems of linear equations and inequalities
7. Add, subtract, multiply and factor polynomial expressions to find the zeros of a quadratic equation or simplify a rational expression
8. Communicate mathematical thinking, analyze and correct errors in their work, and self-evaluate problem solving strategies