Math 4 – College Algebra for STEM
Course: Math 4 - College Algebra for STEM Majors (Section 2442)
Co-requisite: Math 4C - Co-requisite Support (Section 2447)
Instructor: Safaa Dabagh
Email: dabagh_safaa@smc.edu
Meeting Times & Location
Days: Monday & Wednesday
Math 4 Time: 9:00 AM – 11:05 AM
Math 4C Time: 11:15 AM – 12:05 PM
Location: Bundy Campus, Room 221
Semester: February 17 – June 16, 2026
Final Exam: Wednesday, June 11, 2026, 8:00–11:00 AM
Office Hours
When: Monday & Wednesday, 8:00–8:50 AM
Where: Bundy 221
Also: By appointment
Come to office hours! They are for you. Feel free to drop by or email to schedule a time.
About This Course
College Algebra for STEM students provides a rigorous foundation in algebraic concepts and techniques essential for success in calculus, statistics, physics, engineering, and other STEM courses. This course emphasizes functions, their properties, and real-world applications in science and technology.
About Math 4C:
Math 4C is a co-requisite course reviewing core algebraic concepts that support success in Math 4. Both courses must be taken concurrently.
This course can be challenging, both in terms of the breadth of the subject matter and its complexity. Almost every student will be challenged by course material at some point this term. Students who are most successful attend class consistently, complete all assignments, thoughtfully review feedback, develop good study strategies, and take advantage of academic support resources.
If you are having a hard time, please do not wait until the end of the term to seek guidance. I will be in a much better position to support your learning if you seek support early.
Topics Covered
- Algebra fundamentals, relations, and functions
- Solving equations and inequalities
- Polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions
- Systems of equations and matrices
- Analytic geometry and conic sections
- Sequences, series, binomial theorem, and mathematical induction
Free College Algebra Learning Platform
Module 1 Now Available!
Supplement your learning with our free, interactive College Algebra platform. Module 1 is now live with comprehensive lessons, practice problems, and quizzes.
What's Included in Module 1:
- 4 comprehensive lessons covering real numbers, functions, function arithmetic, and graph transformations
- Interactive visualizations to help you understand function behavior and transformations
- 15 practice problems with detailed, step-by-step solutions
- Pre and post assessments to measure your learning progress
- 12-question quiz with instant feedback and explanations
- Printable study guide and quick reference card for exam prep
Perfect for:
- Preparing for class by previewing topics
- Reviewing concepts covered in lectures
- Extra practice before exams
- Self-paced learning anytime, anywhere
Modules 2-4 coming soon! Module 1 covers ~2-3 weeks of course material.
Textbook & Technology
Textbook - Free!
College Algebra by Carl Stitz & Jeff Zeager
This textbook is completely free and available online. No purchase required. Link available on Canvas.
Technology: Desmos Graphing Calculator
We will use Desmos as our primary graphing tool throughout the course.
- Free - works in any web browser
- No account or download required
- Access at desmos.com/calculator
I will provide Desmos activities and demonstrations during class. You are encouraged to use Desmos on homework and practice problems.
Important Exam Dates
Exam 1: Wednesday, March 25 (Chapters 1-3)
Exam 2: Wednesday, April 29 (Chapters 4-6)
Exam 3: Wednesday, May 20 (Chapters 7-8)
Final Exam: Wednesday, June 11, 8:00-11:00 AM (Cumulative)
Mark these dates in your calendar now! No makeups except for documented emergencies.
Course Materials
Course Syllabus
Canvas Course Page
All course materials, assignments, announcements, and grades are posted on Canvas.
Video Tutorials
Many students learn well from videos. Here are excellent free video resources that cover all topics in our course. Watch them before class to prepare, or use them to review concepts.
Professor Leonard - College Algebra
Full-length college lectures covering all topics. Highly recommended.
Khan Academy - College Algebra
Short videos with practice problems. Great for learning at your own pace.
More resources available: Visit the Student Resources page for additional video tutorials, study tips, and learning strategies.
Student Success
Tips for Success in Algebra
- Practice daily: Mathematics is a skill that improves with consistent practice
- Show your work: Partial credit is given for correct process, even if final answer is wrong
- Master prerequisites: Algebra builds on basic math—review if needed
- Use multiple resources: Textbook, videos, tutoring, office hours
- Don't wait to get help: Address confusion early before falling behind
- Connect concepts: Look for patterns and relationships between topics
Need extra support?
Santa Monica College offers free tutoring services. Check Canvas for information on tutoring hours, locations, and online options. I also hold regular office hours—use them!
Need help planning your academic path?
Try our AI Academic Counselor for help with course selection, transfer planning, and prerequisites.
Getting Help
I Want You to Succeed
Please reach out if you are struggling. The sooner you ask for help, the easier it is to get back on track.
- Office Hours: Monday & Wednesday, 8:00-8:50 AM, Bundy 221 (or by appointment)
- Email: dabagh_safaa@smc.edu (allow 24-48 hours for response)
- Canvas: Message me through Canvas for course-related questions
- Math Lab: Free tutoring at SMC (check Canvas for hours)