College algebra vs intermediate albegra ?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the differences between "college algebra" and "intermediate algebra," particularly in terms of content focus and progression towards pre-calculus. Participants explore the scope of each subject and the implications for self-study.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that "college algebra" is more advanced than "intermediate algebra" and suggests starting with an intermediate algebra book for a stronger foundation.
  • Another participant agrees that "college algebra" includes topics such as the Factor Theorem and Remainder Theorem, which are not typically covered in intermediate algebra.
  • It is mentioned that "college algebra" places a greater emphasis on functions and their graphs, including rational functions, compared to the focus on rational and fractional equations in intermediate algebra.
  • Some participants highlight that while "college algebra" covers almost everything in intermediate algebra, it may introduce concepts at a more advanced level.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that "college algebra" is more advanced than "intermediate algebra," but there is no consensus on the best approach for self-study, as some suggest starting with intermediate algebra while others believe strong students could begin with college algebra.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying opinions on the content and structure of both algebra courses, indicating that the definitions and scope of each may depend on specific educational contexts or curricula.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals preparing for pre-calculus, educators considering curriculum choices, and students deciding on self-study paths in algebra.

Holocene
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"college algebra" vs "intermediate albegra"?

I'm finishing up a book on Algebra 1, it pretty much ends with quadratic equations and applications.

As fas as what to study next, is there any major difference between "college" algebra and "intermediate" algebra?

The book I have on college algebra looks like it mainly deals with graphing.

Should I get an intermediate algebra book?

My goal is to school myself up to a pre-calc level.

Thanks.
 
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"College Algebra" is more advanced than Intermediate Algebra. Find and study from an Intermediate Algebra book. You could, if you are strong at Algebra, study College Algebra, since it contains almost everything that is in Intermediate. Most sure learning would be to first study Intermediate Algebra.

More precisely as I am aware, College Algebra contains Factor Theorem and Remainder Theorem, which deal with polynomials and zeros. The treatment of conic sections might be a little more advanced and include a few applications.
 
symbolipoint said:
"College Algebra" is more advanced than Intermediate Algebra. Find and study from an Intermediate Algebra book. You could, if you are strong at Algebra, study College Algebra, since it contains almost everything that is in Intermediate. Most sure learning would be to first study Intermediate Algebra.

More precisely as I am aware, College Algebra contains Factor Theorem and Remainder Theorem, which deal with polynomials and zeros. The treatment of conic sections might be a little more advanced and include a few applications.

Thanks.
 
Some more differences are worth being aware.

You were properly observant about seeing emphasis on graphs in that college algebra book. That course deals with functions and their graphs. A few details about functions beyond what you find at intermediate level occur in the "college" algebra level. Another notable topic is that while you deal with rational equations and fractional equations in Intermediate Algebra, you deal with RATIONAL FUNCTIONS and their graphs in College Algebra.
 

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