Foundational Math for College Success

This course prepares students for success in college-level mathematics by strengthening foundational mathematical concepts and developing effective learning strategies. Students begin by exploring study skills, time management and growth mindset. The course then builds essential mathematical competencies, including operations with whole numbers, integers, fractions, decimals, percentages, units of measurement, equations, inequalities, graphs, exponents, radicals, scientific notation, factoring polynomials, and quadratic equations. Emphasis is placed on mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, calculator proficiency, and the application of mathematics to real-world situations. Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and confidence needed to transition into college-level mathematics courses.

• Competency R1: Working with Whole Numbers and Integers

Recognize whole numbers and integers and perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division with them.

• Competency 1: Solving Equations and Inequalities

Evaluate mathematical expressions using the order of operations, translate verbal statements, and solve linear equations and inequalities.

• Competency 2: Absolute Values

Evaluate, simplify, and solve expressions, equations, and inequalities involving absolute values.

• Competency R2: Factors

Identify factors, multiples, prime numbers, and composite numbers, and apply divisibility rules and prime factorization.

• Competency R3: Using a Calculator

Use a scientific calculator to perform arithmetic operations and evaluate numerical expressions using the order of operations.

• Competency 3: Working with Fractions and Proportions

Identify, convert, simplify, and perform arithmetic operations with fractions and mixed numbers, and solve proportions.

• Competency 4: Decimals and Percentages

Perform arithmetic operations with decimals, convert between fractions, decimals, and percentages, and solve percentage problems.

• Competency 5: Units

Identify units of measurement and use conversion factors and dimensional analysis to convert within and between U.S. customary and metric systems.

• Competency 6: Graphs

Plot ordered pairs, interpret graphs and tables, graph linear equations, and determine slopes and intercepts.

• Competency 7: Exponents

Evaluate and simplify expressions using the laws of exponents and properties of radicals, and solve radical equations.

• Competency R4: Scientific Notation

Represent, compare, and perform operations with numbers in scientific notation to solve real-world problems involving large and small quantities.

• Competency 8: Factoring Polynomials and Solving Quadratic Equations

Factor polynomials and solve quadratic equations using factoring, completing the square, and the quadratic formula, and determine the number and type of solutions.