MAT 009 Developmental Mathematics
A review of fundamental topics of arithmetic needed
for a study of algebra. This course will cover the
following topics: addition, subtraction, multiplication,
and division of fractions; use of decimals and
percent; estimation; addition, subtraction, multiplication,
and division of real numbers; exponents;
order of arithmetic operations; distributive property;
combining like terms; substitution to evaluate
expressions and formulas; grouping symbols; addition
and multiplication principle; formulas; sets;
solving equations with fractons; translating English
phrases into algebraic expressions; and solving
word problems using geometric formulas.
Successful completion of an exit exam at a C level
(75%) or higher is required. Credit earned in MAT
009 does not apply or accumulate toward any
degree program at the University of Southern
Maine. After successful completion of MAT 009,
students must complete both MAT 050 and MAT
051B in sequence to meet mathematics proficiency,
or place out of the proficiency courses via a retake
of the placement exam.
MAT 050 Elementary Algebra
The first course of a two-course sequence designed
for students who need to develop their knowledge of
basic algebra. This course will cover the following
topics: solving word problems, graphing linear
equations, slope of a line, obtaining the equations of
a line, graphing linear inequalities, functions, the
use of graphing calculators, systems of equations in
two variables, applications of systems of linear
equations, rules of exponents, scientific notation,
polynomial operations, multiplication of polynomials.
Emphasis is on mastery of algebraic solution
processes. Completion of an exit exam at a C level
(75%) or higher is required. This course is taught in
a lecture/lab format. Prerequisite: MAT 009 or its
USM equivalent. Associate degree credit only, in
approved programs. After successful completion of
MAT 050, students must then complete MAT 051B
to meet mathematics proficiency, or place out of the
proficiency courses via a retake of the placement
exam.
MAT 051B Intermediate Algebra
A continuation of MAT 050, topics include factoring;
simplifying rational expressions; multiplying,
dividing, addition and subtraction of rational
expressions; complex rational expressions; equations
involving rational expressions; ratio, proportion,
and applied problems; radical expressions and
functions; operations with radicals; radical equations;
formulas with applications; quadratic equations;
quadratic functions; and the use of graphing.
Emphasis is on mastery of algebraic solution
processes. Completion of an exit exam at a C level
(75%) or higher is required to meet proficiency.
This course is taught in a lecture/lab format.
Successful completion of this course fulfills the proficiency
math requirement of the Core curriculum.
Prerequisite: MAT 050 or its USM equivalent.
Associate degree credit only.