Math 010
Math 010 – Intermediate Algebra
Introduction: The information presented here is intended to describe the course goals for current and prospective students as well as others who are interested in our courses. It is not intended to replace the instructional policies and course materials presented in class.
The following information applies to the Newark campus. For information about this course offered at the satellite campuses, see the contacts at the bottom of this web page.
Every effort is made to update this information on a routine basis. However, if you have questions about enrollment, purchasing materials, and prerequisite skills, please check with your advisor or instructor.
The most updated Course Description can be found at the UD Course Description Search. Information on the sections currently offered can be found at the UD Course Search. More information can be found on the departmental syllabus.
Math 010 – Intermediate Algebra is a non-credit mathematics course designed to help you prepare for future college mathematics courses, specifically Math 114, Math 115, and Math 117. In this course you will have the opportunity to develop both a conceptual and procedural understanding of algebra. This knowledge will serve you well because algebra is the basic language through which all mathematical and scientific concepts are communicated. The major goals of this course are to:
- Improve algebraic skills and understandings
- Read, interpret, and construct graphs
- Improve problem-solving skills
- Learn more about where and how mathematics is used in the real world
While this course does not count toward your required credits for graduation, your course grade does appear on your transcript and will indicate your efforts toward acquiring a degree at the University of Delaware. In order to move on to your next math course, you must earn a C- or higher in Math 010.
In a typical semester, the following topics are studied:
- Solving Linear Equations and Inequalities (including formulas & applications)
- Linear Functions
- Functions and Relations
- Systems of Equations in Two Variables (solving systems & applications)
- Polynomial Expressions (operations with polynomials & factoring)
- Rational Functions, Expressions, and Equations (operations with rational expressions, solving rational equations, & applications)
- Radical Expressions (operations with radical expressions)
- Solving Quadratic Equations
Your instructor may cover these topics in a different order or may add topics if necessary.
Students can enroll in this math course with any math placement level.
Students must have some basic algebra and arithmetic skills to succeed in this course. Experience has shown that students who enroll without these skills are less likely to succeed.
Prior to taking Math 010, students should be comfortable working with fractions, decimals, percents, and signed numbers without a calculator. Students should have basic algebra manipulation skills used to simplify a basic expression or solve a basic equation. Much of this material is covered in an Arithmetic or Algebra I high school math course. If you do not have these skills, you may need to enroll in a community college math course with a course title of Algebra.
The following course materials are usually required in this course:
- Online math program for homework, access to the textbook, and testing
- Course pack containing class activities
Information regarding calculators will be announced in class. Students should always check with their instructor before purchasing any course materials.
On the Newark campus during the regular semesters, Math 010 is taught in the Mathematical Sciences Learning Lab (MSLL). During much of class, students work in small groups on activities that focus on concepts and connections between ideas. Students practice the procedures outside of class using an online homework system.
During the fall and spring semesters, the course meets three hours per week. Typically, there are two out-of-class midterm exams and a cumulative final exam taken during Final Exam week.
During the shorter sessions (winter and summer), the course may have a different schedule and may have different course activities and assessments. See Course Sections for sections currently offered.
There are several campus resources that provide additional assistance.
- Mathematical Sciences Learning Laboratory (MSLL) Open Lab: MSLL Open Lab provides free tutorial support for this course. The lab is staffed by qualified undergraduate students. This is a drop-in site – no appointment is needed. Students can work on their math homework, study for a math quiz or exam, and receive free tutorial assistance. More information can be found at the webpage: MSLL Open Lab
- Office of Academic Enrichment: Located at 148-150 South College Avenue, this site provides a number of different course resources for students. Please visit their website for more information.
Students enrolled at other campuses should contact the math faculty for the specific campus for additional information about this course.
- Dover Campus: Brad Thompson, bthompso@udel.edu
- Georgetown Campus: Matthew Willis, mjwillis@udel.edu
- Wilmington Campus: Alexia M intos, amintos@udel.edu
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