36
Lectures
30
minutes/lecture
1.
An Introduction to the Course
Professor Sellers introduces the general topics and themes for the course, describing his approach and recommending a strategy for making the best use of the lessons and supplementary workbook. Warm up with some simple problems that demonstrate signed numbers and operations.
1.
An Introduction to the Course
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19.
Factoring Trinomials
Begin to find solutions for quadratic equations, starting with the FOIL technique in reverse to find the binomial factors of a quadratic trinomial (a binomial expression consists of two terms, a trinomial of three). Professor Sellers explains the tricks of factoring such expressions, which is a process almost like solving a mystery.
19.
Factoring Trinomials
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2.
Order of Operations
The order in which you do simple operations of arithmetic can make a big difference. Learn how to solve problems that combine adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing, as well as raising numbers to various powers. These same concepts also apply when you need to simplify algebraic expressions, making it critical to master them now.
2.
Order of Operations
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20.
Quadratic Equations—Factoring
In some circumstances, quadratic expressions are given in a special form that allows them to be factored quickly. Focus on two such forms: perfect square trinomials and differences of two squares. Learning to recognize these cases makes factoring easy.
20.
Quadratic Equations—Factoring
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3.
Percents, Decimals, and Fractions
Continue your study of math fundamentals by exploring various procedures for converting between percents, decimals, and fractions. Professor Sellers notes that it helps to see these procedures as ways of presenting the same information in different forms.
3.
Percents, Decimals, and Fractions
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21.
Quadratic Equations—The Quadratic Formula
For those cases that defy simple factoring, the quadratic formula provides a powerful technique for solving quadratic equations. Discover that this formidable-looking expression is not as difficult as it appears and is well worth committing to memory. Also learn how to determine if a quadratic equation has no solutions.
21.
Quadratic Equations—The Quadratic Formula
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4.
Variables and Algebraic Expressions
Advance to the next level of problem solving by using variables as the building blocks to create algebraic expressions, which are combinations of mathematical symbols that might include numbers, variables, and operation symbols. Also learn some tricks for translating the language of problems (phrases in English) into the language of math (algebraic expressions).
4.
Variables and Algebraic Expressions
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22.
Quadratic Equations—Completing the Square
After learning the definition of a function, investigate an additional approach to solving quadratic equations: completing the square. This technique is very useful when rewriting the equation of a quadratic function in such a way that the graph of the function is easily sketched.
22.
Quadratic Equations—Completing the Square
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5.
Operations and Expressions
Discover that by following basic rules on how to treat coefficients and exponents, you can reduce very complicated algebraic expressions to much simpler ones. You start by using the commutative property of multiplication to rearrange the terms of an expression, making combining them relatively easy.
5.
Operations and Expressions
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23.
Representations of Quadratic Functions
Drawing on your experience solving quadratic functions, analyze the parabolic shapes produced by such functions when represented on a graph. Use your algebraic skills to determine the parabola's vertex, its x and y intercepts, and whether it opens in an upward "cup" or downward in a "cap."
23.
Representations of Quadratic Functions
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6.
Principles of Graphing in 2 Dimensions
Using graph paper and pencil, begin your exploration of the coordinate plane, also known as the Cartesian plane. Learn how to plot points in the four quadrants of the plane, how to choose a scale for labeling the x and y axes, and how to graph a linear equation.
6.
Principles of Graphing in 2 Dimensions
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24.
Quadratic Equations in the Real World
Quadratic functions often arise in real-world settings. Explore a number of problems, including calculating the maximum height of a rocket and determining how long an object dropped from a tree takes to reach the ground. Learn that in finding a solution, graphing can often help.
24.
Quadratic Equations in the Real World
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7.
Solving Linear Equations, Part 1
In this lesson, work through simple one- and two-step linear equations, learning how to isolate the variable by different operations. Professor Sellers also presents a word problem involving a two-step equation and gives tips for how to solve it.
7.
Solving Linear Equations, Part 1
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25.
The Pythagorean Theorem
Because it involves terms raised to the second power, the famous Pythagorean theorem, a2 + b2 = c2, is actually a quadratic equation. Discover how techniques you have previously learned for analyzing quadratic functions can be used for solving problems involving right triangles.
25.
The Pythagorean Theorem
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8.
Solving Linear Equations, Part 2
Investigating more complicated examples of linear equations, learn that linear equations fall into three categories. First, the equation might have exactly one solution. Second, it might have no solutions at all. Third, it might be an identity, which means every number is a solution.
8.
Solving Linear Equations, Part 2
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26.
Polynomials of Higher Degree
Most of the expressions you've studied in the course so far have been polynomials. Learn what characterizes a polynomial and how to recognize polynomials in both algebraic functions and in graphical form. Professor Sellers defines several terms, including the degree of an equation, the leading coefficient, and the domain.
26.
Polynomials of Higher Degree
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9.
Slope of a Line
Explore the concept of slope, which for a given straight line is its rate of change, defined as the rise over run. Learn the formula for calculating slope with coordinates only, and what it means to have a positive, negative, and undefined slope.
9.
Slope of a Line
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27.
Operations and Polynomials
Much of what you've learned about linear and quadratic expressions applies to adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing polynomials. Discover how the FOIL operation can be extended to multiplying large polynomials, and a version of long division works for dividing one polynomial by another.
27.
Operations and Polynomials
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10.
Graphing Linear Equations, Part 1
Use what you've learned about slope to graph linear equations in the slope-intercept form, y = mx + b, where m is the slope, and b is the y intercept. Experiment with examples in which you calculate the equation from a graph and from a table of pairs of points.
10.
Graphing Linear Equations, Part 1
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28.
Rational Expressions, Part 1
When one polynomial is divided by another, the result is called a rational function because it is the ratio of two polynomials. These functions play an important role in algebra. Learn how to add and subtract rational functions by first finding their common divisor.
28.
Rational Expressions, Part 1
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11.
Graphing Linear Equations, Part 2
A more versatile approach to writing the equation of a line is the point-slope form, in which only two points are required, and neither needs to intercept the y axis. Work through several examples and become comfortable determining the equation using the line and the line using the equation
11.
Graphing Linear Equations, Part 2
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29.
Rational Expressions, Part 2
Continuing your exploration of rational expressions, try your hand at multiplying and dividing them. The key to solving these complicated-looking equations is to proceed one step at a time. Close the lesson with a problem that brings together all you've learned about rational functions.
29.
Rational Expressions, Part 2
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12.
Parallel and Perpendicular Lines
Apply what you've discovered about equations of lines to two very special types of lines: parallel and perpendicular. Learn how to tell if lines are parallel or perpendicular from their equations alone, without having to see the lines themselves. Also try your hand at word problems that feature both types of lines.
12.
Parallel and Perpendicular Lines
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30.
Graphing Rational Functions, Part 1
Examine the distinctive graphs formed by rational functions, which may form vertical or horizontal curves that aren't even connected on a graph. Learn to identify the intercepts and the vertical and horizontal asymptotes of these fascinating curves.
30.
Graphing Rational Functions, Part 1
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13.
Solving Word Problems with Linear Equations
Linear equations reflect the behavior of real-life phenomena. Practice evaluating tables of numbers to determine if they can be represented as linear equations. Conclude with an example about the yearly growth of a tree. Does it increase in size at a linear rate?
13.
Solving Word Problems with Linear Equations
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31.
Graphing Rational Functions, Part 2
Sketch the graphs of several rational functions by first calculating the vertical and horizontal asymptotes, the x and y intercepts, and then plotting several points in the function. In the final exercise, you must simplify the expression in order to extract the needed information.
31.
Graphing Rational Functions, Part 2
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14.
Linear Equations for Real-World Data
Investigating more real-world applications of linear equations, derive the formula for converting degrees Celsius to Fahrenheit; determine the boiling point of water in Denver, Colorado; and calculate the speed of a rising balloon and the time for an elevator to descend to the ground floor.
14.
Linear Equations for Real-World Data
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32.
Radical Expressions
Anytime you see a root symbol—for example, the symbol for a square root—then you're dealing with what mathematicians call a radical. Learn how to simplify radical expressions and perform operations on them, such as multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction, as well as combinations of these operations.
32.
Radical Expressions
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15.
Systems of Linear Equations, Part 1
When two lines intersect, they form a system of linear equations. Discover two methods for finding a solution to such a system: by graphing and by substitution. Then try out a real-world example, involving a farmer who wants to plant different crops in different proportions.
15.
Systems of Linear Equations, Part 1
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33.
Solving Radical Equations
Discover how to solve equations that contain radical expressions. A key step is isolating the radical term and then squaring both sides. As always, it's important to check the solution by plugging it into the equation to see if it makes sense. This is especially true with radical equations, which can sometimes yield extraneous, or invalid, solutions.
33.
Solving Radical Equations
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16.
Systems of Linear Equations, Part 2
Expand your tools for solving systems of linear equations by exploring the method of solving by elimination. This technique allows you to eliminate one variable by performing addition, subtraction, or multiplication on both sides of an equation, allowing a straightforward solution for the remaining variable.
16.
Systems of Linear Equations, Part 2
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34.
Graphing Radical Functions
In previous lessons, you moved from linear, quadratic, and rational functions to the graphs that display them. Now do the same with radical functions. For these, it's important to pay attention to the domain of the functions to ensure that negative values are not introduced beneath the root symbol.
34.
Graphing Radical Functions
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17.
Linear Inequalities
Shift gears to consider linear inequalities, which are mathematical expressions featuring a less than sign or a greater than sign instead of an equal sign. Discover that these kinds of problems have some very interesting twists, and they come up frequently in business applications.
17.
Linear Inequalities
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35.
Sequences and Pattern Recognition, Part 1
Pattern recognition is an important and fascinating mathematical skill. Investigate two types of number patterns: geometric sequences and arithmetic sequences. Learn how to analyze such patterns and work out a formula that predicts any term in the sequence
35.
Sequences and Pattern Recognition, Part 1
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18.
An Introduction to Quadratic Polynomials
Transition to a more complex type of algebraic expression, which incorporates squared terms and is therefore known as quadratic. Learn how to use the FOIL method (first, outer, inner, last) to multiply linear terms to get a quadratic expression.
18.
An Introduction to Quadratic Polynomials
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36.
Sequences and Pattern Recognition, Part 2
Conclude the course by examining more types of number sequences, discovering how rich and enjoyable the mathematics of pattern recognition can be. As in previous lessons, employ your reasoning skills and growing command of algebra to find order—and beauty—where once all was a confusion of numbers.
36.
Sequences and Pattern Recognition, Part 2
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24
Lectures
30
minutes/lecture
1.
Addition and Subtraction
This introductory lecture starts with Professor Sellers’ overview of the general topics and themes you’ll encounter throughout the course. Then, plunge into an engaging review of the addition and subtraction of whole numbers, complete with several helpful tips designed to help you approach these types of problems with more confidence.
1.
Addition and Subtraction
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13.
Exponents and Order of Operations
Explore a fifth fundamental mathematical operation: exponentiation. First, take a step-by-step look at the order of operations for handling longer calculations that involve multiple tasks—complete with invaluable tips to help you handle them with ease. Then, see where exponentiation fits in this larger process.
13.
Exponents and Order of Operations
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2.
Multiplication
Continue your quick review of basic mathematical operations, this time with a focus on the multiplication of whole numbers. In addition to uncovering the relationship between addition and multiplication, you’ll get plenty of opportunities to strengthen your ability to multiply two 2-digit numbers, two 3-digit numbers, and more.
2.
Multiplication
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14.
Negative and Positive Integers
Improve your confidence in dealing with negative numbers. You’ll learn to use the number line to help visualize these numbers; discover how to rewrite subtraction problems involving negative numbers as addition problems to make them easier; examine the rules involved in multiplying and dividing with them; and much more.
14.
Negative and Positive Integers
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3.
Long Division
Turn now to the opposite of multiplication: division. Learn how to properly set up a long division problem, how to check your answers to make sure they’re correct, how to handle zeroes when they appear in a problem, and what to do when a long division problem ends with a remainder.
3.
Long Division
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15.
Introduction to Square Roots
In this lecture, finally make sense of square roots. Professor Sellers offers examples to help you sidestep issues many students express frustration with, shows you how to simplify radical expressions involving addition and subtraction, and reveals how to find the approximate value of a square root without using a calculator.
15.
Introduction to Square Roots
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4.
Introduction to Fractions
Mathematics is also filled with “parts” of whole numbers, or fractions. In the first of several lectures on fractions, define key terms and focus on powerful techniques for determining if fractions are equivalent, finding out which of two fractions is larger, and reducing fractions to their lowest terms.
4.
Introduction to Fractions
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16.
Negative and Fractional Powers
What happens when you have to raise numbers to a fraction of a power? How about when you have to deal with negative exponents? Or negative fractional exponents? No need to worry —Professor Sellers guides you through this tricky mathematical territory, arming you with invaluable techniques for approaching these scenarios.
16.
Negative and Fractional Powers
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5.
Adding and Subtracting Fractions
Fractions with the same denominator. Fractions with different denominators. Mixed numbers. Here, learn ways to add and subtract them all (and sometimes even in the same problem) and get tips for reducing your answers to their lowest terms. Math with fractions, you’ll discover, doesn’t have to be intimidating—it can even be fun!
5.
Adding and Subtracting Fractions
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17.
Graphing in the Coordinate Plane
Grab some graph paper and learn how to graph objects in the coordinate (or xy) plane. You’ll find out how to plot points, how to determine which quadrant they go in, how to sketch the graph of a line, how to determine a line’s slope, and more.
17.
Graphing in the Coordinate Plane
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6.
Multiplying Fractions
Continue having fun with fractions, this time by mastering how to multiply them and reduce your answer to its lowest term. Professor Sellers shows you how to approach and solve multiplication problems involving fractions (with both similar and different denominators), fractions and whole numbers, and fractions and mixed numbers.
6.
Multiplying Fractions
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18.
Geometry—Triangles and Quadrilaterals
Continue exploring the visual side of mathematics with this look at the basics of two-dimensional geometry. Among the topics you’ll focus on here are the various types of triangles (including scalene and obtuse triangles) and quadrilaterals (such as rectangles and squares), as well as methods for measuring angles, area, and perimeter.
18.
Geometry—Triangles and Quadrilaterals
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7.
Dividing Fractions
Professor Sellers walks you step-by-step through the process for speedily solving division problems involving fractions in this lecture filled with helpful practice problems. You’ll also learn how to better handle calculations involving different notations, fractions, and whole numbers, and even word problems involving the division of fractions.
7.
Dividing Fractions
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19.
Geometry—Polygons and Circles
Gain a greater appreciation for the interaction between arithmetic and geometry. First, learn how to recognize and approach large polygons, including hexagons and decagons. Then, explore the various concepts behind circles (such as radius, diameter, and the always intriguing pi), as well as methods for calculating their circumference, area, and perimeter.
19.
Geometry—Polygons and Circles
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8.
Adding and Subtracting Decimals
What’s 29.42 + 84.67? Or 643 + 82.987? What about 25.7 – 10.483? Problems like these are the focus of this helpful lecture on adding and subtracting decimals. One tip for making these sorts of calculations easier: making sure your decimal points are all lined up vertically.
8.
Adding and Subtracting Decimals
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20.
Number Theory—Prime Numbers and Divisors
Shift gears and demystify number theory, which takes as its focus the study of the properties of whole numbers. Concepts that Professor Sellers discusses and teaches you how to engage with in this insightful lecture include divisors, prime numbers, prime factorizations, greatest common divisors, and factor trees.
20.
Number Theory—Prime Numbers and Divisors
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9.
Multiplying and Dividing Decimals
Investigate the best ways to multiply and divide decimal numbers. You’ll get insights into when and when not to ignore the decimal point in your calculations, how to check your answer to ensure that your result has the correct number of decimal places, and how to express remainders in decimals.
9.
Multiplying and Dividing Decimals
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21.
Number Theory—Divisibility Tricks
In this second lecture on the world of number theory, take a closer look at the relationships between even and odd numbers, as well as the rules of divisibility for particular numbers. By the end, you’ll be surprised that something as intimidating as number theory could be made so accessible.
21.
Number Theory—Divisibility Tricks
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10.
Fractions, Decimals, and Percents
Take a closer look at converting between percents, decimals, and fractions—an area of basic mathematics that many people have a hard time with. After learning the techniques in this lecture and using them on numerous practice problems, you’ll be surprised at how easy this type of conversion is to master.
10.
Fractions, Decimals, and Percents
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22.
Introduction to Statistics
Get a solid introduction to statistics, one of the most useful areas of mathematics. Here, you’ll focus on the four basic “measurements” statisticians use when gleaning meaning from data: mean, media, mode, and range. Also, see these concepts at work in everyday scenarios in which statistics plays a key role.
22.
Introduction to Statistics
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11.
Percent Problems
Use the skills you developed in the last lecture to better approach and solve different kinds of percentage problems you’d most likely encounter in your everyday life. Among these everyday scenarios: calculating the tip at a restaurant and determining how much money you’re saving on a store’s discount.
11.
Percent Problems
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23.
Introduction to Probability
Learn more about probability, a cousin of statistics and another mathematical field that helps us make sense of the seemingly unexplainable nature of the world. You’ll consider basic questions and concepts from probability, drawing on the knowledge and skills of the fundamentals of mathematics you acquired in earlier lectures.
23.
Introduction to Probability
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12.
Ratios and Proportions
How do ratios and proportions work? How can you figure out if a particular problem is merely just a ratio or proportion problem in disguise? What are some pitfalls to watch out for? And how can a better understanding of these subjects help save you money? Find out here.
12.
Ratios and Proportions
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24.
Introduction to Algebra
Professor Sellers reviews the importance of math in daily life and previews the next logical step in your studies: Algebra I (which involves variables). Whether you’re planning to take more Great Courses in mathematics or simply looking to sharpen your mind, you’ll be sent off with new levels of confidence.
24.
Introduction to Algebra
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