Math 51 Elementary Algebra

If you are considering taking a lower-level class than Math 51:

• We encourage you to consider taking the corequisite course—Math 5—which provides additional support for Math 51.
• The next level lower is Math 50 (Pre-Algebra).

If you are considering taking a higher-level class than Math 51:

• The next level higher is Math 71 (Intermediate Algebra).

Sample of what you should know before taking Math 51:

 1. Factor:  

• • Solution
    Since the greatest common factor is , we have:

    

    

 2. Solve:  

• • Solution
    

    

    

    

 3. Subtract:   

• • Solution
              

    

                                

 4. Multiply, then combine like terms:    

• • Solution
    

    

Sample of what you will learn in Math 51:

 1. Solve:   

• • Solution
    

    

     or  

      or  

 2.  Factor:  

• • Solution
    

    

• • Solution

    

    Since the least common denominator is , we have

            = 

     = 

    ____________________________________________

                                                         

• • Solution