MTH 120 - Finite Mathematics

Credits: 3
Instructional Contact Hours: 3

Includes topics of mathematical modeling (polynomial and rational functions; their graphs and applications; and arithmetic and geometric progressions), systems of equations and inequalities, linear programming, and an introduction to probability (binomial distributions and graphing qualitative data). Covers computer applications of some topics. A GRAPHING CALCULATOR IS REQUIRED. (Those students planning to take MTH 161 should take MTH 151 rather than MTH 120.)

Prerequisite(s): High school GPA of 3.0 or higher within the last ten years OR completion of Guided Self-Placement (GSP) process.
Corequisite(s): None
Lecture Hours: 45 Lab Hours: 0
Meets MTA Requirement: Math
Pass/NoCredit: Yes

Outcomes and Objectives

Students will demonstrate an understanding of functions and function notation.
1. Define the terms function, domain and range.
2. Determine if a relationship is a function.
3. Graph functions.
4. Evaluate functions at points in its domain.
5. Determine the domain of a function.
6. Distinguish between different types of functions.
7. Manipulate the algebraic representation of a function.
8. Use functions as mathematical models.
1. Use matrices as a tool to manipulate systems of equations.
2. Solve systems of equations using appropriate methods.
3. Formulate the parts of linear programming problem
4. Solve a 2 variable linear programming problem graphically.
5. Set up the linear programming problem for solution by Simplex Method.
6. Determine if the Simplex Method has found the optimal solution.
7. Write out the solution given by the Simplex Method.
Students can demonstrate an understanding of basic probability and counting.
1. Define classical and empirical probability, permutations and combinations.
2. Use the definitions to determine the probabilities of events.
3. Differentiate between permutations and combinations.
4. Use the language of sets appropriately.
Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the basic formulas of finance.
1. Determine the appropriate financial formula to use for a given problem.
2. Correctly compute values derive from these formulas.
3. Define the terms compound interest, simple interest, annuity, future value and present value.
Students can demonstrate an understanding of measures of central tendency and variation.
1. Define and compute the mean, median, and mode.
2. Define and compute the standard deviation, variance and range.
Students will demonstrate an understanding of how to apply mathematics to solve real world problems.
1. Use the concepts of functions and function notation to solve application problems.
2. Use the concepts of systems of equations and inequalities to solve application problems.
3. Use the concepts of probability and counting to solve application problems.
4. Use financial formulas to solve application problems.
Students will demonstrate an understanding of functions and function notation.
Students will use technology (calculator/computer software) appropriately to do mathematics