Mar 13, 2026  
2025-2026 Catalog SVC 
    
2025-2026 Catalog SVC

MATH 096 - Pre-Algebra


Credits: 5
Variable Credit Course: No

Lecture Hours: 55
Lab Hours: 0
Worksite/Clinical Hours: 0
Other Hours (LIA/Internships): 0

Course Description: A course designed to strengthen math skills, including analyzing data, computing with integers, and using basic algebra equations to solve applied proportion, percent, and geometry problems.

Prerequisite: Math 095 with a grade of C or higher, or equivalent math placement score.
Meets FQE Requirement: No
Integrative Experience Requirement: No

Student Learning Outcomes
  1. Perform basic operations with real numbers with an emphasis on fractions and decimals.
  2. Solve problems using ratios, proportions, and percentages.
  3. Solve problems using basic linear equations and geometry concepts.
  4. Convert between systems of measurement with an emphasis on the U.S. and metric systems.
  5. Solve percent problems using equations and proportions.
  6. Solve real-life and theoretical applications by identifying the objective and appropriate mathematical tools.
  7. Demonstrate mathematical literacy by using mathematically appropriate vocabulary, notation, and significant digits.
  8. Use scientific calculators when solving real-life and theoretical problems.
  9. Locate and use appropriate math learning resources.

Course Contents
  1. Basic numeracy. Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of real numbers. Order relation. Place value, Estimation, Rounding. Mean, median, and mode.
  2. Operations using fractions, decimals, and scientific notations. Fractions: Reducing, common denominators. Real numbers: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division.
  3. Ratios, Proportions, Percentages. Creating, interpreting. Increase/decrease using equations. Solving application problems.
  4. Geometry. Pythagorean theorem. Computations of area and volume. Euclidean basics (shapes, angles, and lines).
  5. Measurement systems. Metric system. U.S. customary system. Conversions between metric and U.S. systems.
  6. Algebra. Introductory topics. Mathematical expressions. Basic Exponents and Scientific Notation. Solve basic linear equations. Introduction to the Cartesian plane. Solve percentage, ratio, and proportion problems.
  7. Math Literacy, including: Mathematical vocabulary; Mathematical notation; Critically read, understand, and analyze real-life and theoretical problems.
  8. Using technology in math. Use basic scientific calculators like the Ti-30xs to perform basic math operations. Use free e-learning tools available through a learning management system, such as Canvas, and mathematics assessment management system, such as WAMAP.
  9. Metacognition. Verbalizing and writing the steps to solving a problem. Verbalizing and writing about their thinking.
  10. Reflection through formative assessment. Answering prompts about concepts.
  11. Student success skills in math. Accessing Math Learning Resources, such as finding tutorials online that work for you, visiting math center for help with homework, writing messages to your instructor with questions. Time management. Note taking.


Instructional Units: 5