Maricopa Community Colleges  MAT091   19966-19975 
Official Course Description:   MCCCD Approval:  06/27/95  
MAT091      19966-19975 LEC 4 Credit(s) 4 Period(s)
Algebra/Anxiety Reduction
Standard first course in algebra, for students who haven't had algebra or for those needing a review of first-year algebra, supplemented by instruction in anxiety reducing techniques, math study skills, test taking techniques. May not receive credit for MAT090, MAT091, and MAT092. Prerequisites: Grade of "C" or better in MAT082, or MAT102, or equivalent or satisfactory score on District placement exam.
 
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MCCCD Official Course Competencies:
 
MAT091   19966-19975 Algebra/Anxiety Reduction
1. Describe the real number system and the properties of real numbers. (I)
2. Use the basic operations of signed numbers. (I)
3. Solve linear equations and inequalities. (II)
4. Simplify polynomial and rational expressions. (III)
5. Use polynomials to solve applied problems. (IV)
6. Use rational expressions to solve applied problems. (V)
7. Graph linear equations with two variables. (VI)
8. Solve systems at linear equations. (VI)
9. Simplify radical expressions. (VII)
10. Define math anxiety, and describe several common symptoms of math anxiety. (VIII)
11. List and describe the common causes of math anxiety. (IX)
12. Analyze the mathematical requirements of personal career choices, and describe the consequences of math avoidance on career choices. (X)
13. Explain and practice techniques for coping with math anxiety, including study skills and test-taking strategies. (XI)
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MCCCD Official Course Outline:
 
MAT091   19966-19975 Algebra/Anxiety Reduction
    I. The Language of Algebra and Signed Numbers
        A. The language of algebra
        B. Signed numbers, opposites, and absolute value
        C. Adding signed numbers
        D. Subtracting signed numbers
        E. Multiplying signed numbers
        F. Dividing signed numbers
      II. Linear Equations and Inequalities
          A. Order of operations, expressions, and formulas
          B. Solve equations
          C. Solve inequalities
          D. Solve equation/inequality applied problems
        III. Polynomials
            A. Laws of exponents
            B. Algebraic operations of polynomials
          IV. Factoring Polynomials
              A. Factoring polynomials: monomial factors
              B. Factoring polynomials: factoring by grouping
              C. Factoring trinomials
              D. Factoring: special cases
              E. Solving equations
            V. Fractions of Algebra
                A. Simplify rational expressions
                B. Algebraic operations of rational expressions
                C. Solve equations and applied problems
              VI. Linear Equations in Two Variables
                  A. Graph linear equations
                    1. Use intercepts
                    2. Use slope/intercept
                  B. Solve systems of linear equations
                    1. Graphically
                    2. Addition/elimination
                    3. Substitution
                  C. Solve applied problems
                VII. Radical Expressions
                    A. Define
                    B. Simplify numerical and variable radical expressions
                  VIII. What is Math Anxiety?
                      A. The physiology of anxiety
                      B. Relationship of anxiety to cognitive processes
                      C. Disabling effects of math anxiety
                    IX. What Causes Math Anxiety?
                        A. Math myths
                        B. Former experiences with math
                        C. Self-defeating beliefs
                        D. Self-fulfilling prophecies
                      X. How Does Math Anxiety Limit People?
                          A. Career choices
                          B. Analysis of mathematical requirements of students' career choices
                          C. Long-term effects of math avoidance on academic and career choices
                        XI. How Do People Overcome Math Anxiety?
                            A. Interaction of cognitive processes and emotion
                            B. Self-talk exercise
                            C. Relaxation and desensitization
                            D. Study skills
                            E. Test-taking strategies
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