• Course Introduction

        • Time: 101 hours
        • Free Certificate
        In this course, you will be introduced to basic algebraic operations and concepts, as well as the structure and use of algebra. Topics include linear inequalities, graphing, exponents, polynomials, and rational expressions. You will study basic algebraic operations and concepts, as well as the structure and use of algebra. This includes solving algebraic equations, factoring algebraic expressions, working with rational expressions, and graphing linear equations. You will apply these skills to solve real-world problems (word problems). Each unit will have its own application problems, depending on the concepts you have been exposed to. This course is also intended to provide you with a strong foundation for intermediate algebra and beyond. It will begin with a review of some math concepts formed in pre-algebra, such as ordering operations and simplifying simple algebraic expressions, to get your feet wet. You will then build on these concepts by learning more about functions, graphing of functions, evaluation of functions, and factorization. You will spend time on the rules of exponents and their applications in the distribution of multiplication over addition/subtraction.

        First, read the course syllabus. Then, enroll in the course by clicking "Enroll me in this course". Click Unit 1 to read its introduction and learning outcomes. You will then see the learning materials and instructions on how to use them.

      • Unit 1: Basic Algebra Concepts

        We begin by quickly reviewing the basic concepts you will need to understand as you begin your study of algebra. If you have taken a pre-algebra course, you may be familiar with some of these concepts. With practice, every student, regardless of background, can grasp these concepts.

        Completing this unit should take you approximately 26 hours.

      • Unit 2: Solving Linear Inequalities and Graphing

        In this unit, you will learn to apply the concept of solving equations to solve problems involving linear inequalities. You will also learn how to graph a straight line, use different methods to find the slope and intercept of a line, and interpret slope and intercept. You will learn more about types of straight lines.

        Completing this unit should take you approximately 20 hours.

      • Unit 3: Exponents and Polynomials

        This section introduces you to the concept of evaluating exponents, converting scientific notations to decimal notations, and vice versa. You will apply these concepts to evaluating polynomial expressions.

        Completing this unit should take you approximately 19 hours.

      • Unit 4: Factoring Polynomials

        This unit expands on what you learned in Unit 3. In Unit 4, you will learn to factor the greatest common factor by grouping and other factoring methods. Because factoring and distribution are opposite actions, you will be able to determine whether you have factored correctly by going in the opposite direction, which is distributing through multiplication.

        Completing this unit should take you approximately 19 hours.

      • Unit 5: Rational Expressions

        In this unit, you will learn how to evaluate rational expressions and perform operations such as addition, multiplication, and division involving rational expressions. You will apply the concept of multiplying rational expressions to dimensional analysis, where you will convert units from single/dual unit of measurement to another.

        Completing this unit should take you approximately 17 hours.

      • Course Feedback Survey

        Please take a few minutes to give us feedback about this course. We appreciate your feedback, whether you completed the whole course or even just a few resources. Your feedback will help us make our courses better, and we use your feedback each time we make updates to our courses.

        If you come across any urgent problems, email contact@saylor.org or post in our discussion forum.

      • Certificate Final Exam

        Take this exam if you want to earn a free Course Completion Certificate.

        To receive a free Course Completion Certificate, you will need to earn a grade of 70% or higher on this final exam. Your grade for the exam will be calculated as soon as you complete it. If you do not pass the exam on your first try, you can take it again as many times as you want, with a 7-day waiting period between each attempt.

        Once you pass this final exam, you will be awarded a free Course Completion Certificate.

      • Saylor Direct Credit

        Take this exam if you want to earn college credit for this course. This course is eligible for college credit through Saylor Academy's Saylor Direct Credit Program.

        The Saylor Direct Credit Final Exam requires a proctoring fee of $5. To pass this course and earn a Proctor-Verified Course Certificate and official transcript, you will need to earn a grade of 70% or higher on the Saylor Direct Credit Final Exam. Your grade for this exam will be calculated as soon as you complete it. If you do not pass the exam on your first try, you can take it again a maximum of 3 times, with a 14-day waiting period between each attempt.

        We are partnering with SmarterProctoring to help make the proctoring fee more affordable. We will be recording you, your screen, and the audio in your room during the exam. This is an automated proctoring service, but no decisions are automated; recordings are only viewed by our staff with the purpose of making sure it is you taking the exam and verifying any questions about exam integrity. We understand that there are challenges with learning at home - we won't invalidate your exam just because your child ran into the room!

        Requirements:

        1. Desktop Computer
        2. Chrome (v74+)
        3. Webcam + Microphone
        4. 1mbps+ Internet Connection

        Once you pass this final exam, you will be awarded a Credit-Recommended Course Completion Certificate and can request an official transcript.