The artifact that I have chosen for the “Core Skill: Critical Thinking” is one that I completed in
my MAT-171, Pre-calculus Algebra course. Taken over the course of 12 weeks, I went to class
in-person as well as online when needed. Along with assignments in Pearson, I also completed textbook questions. In this artifact, titled “4.3 Lab,” I analyzed a rational math equation and found the solution. Reflecting on this artifact, I can confidently say that I did not have much of a difficult time problem solving this. However, critical thinking was used through being able to show my work. I believe that this goal is vital to any math problem.

By using synthetic division and complex conjugate pairs, I was able to figure out the linear factors. Through this, I was able to fulfill my goal of evaluating an outcome.

While I don’t remember the exact time that it took me to solve this problem, I know
that it did not take me a long time—most likely less than an hour. My original goal was to master addressing the topic, which has been achieved through writing down the original equation. However, a better goal that was supported by this artifact is coming up with a solution that addresses the topic, or in simpler terms--evidence. Through two synthetic division equations, the solution was reached in an organized manner. I believe that thorough skills learned from this course, solving the equation was not much of a challenge. While this artifact was simpler in the rubric, this core skill taught me to take my time in analyzing the problem and synthesizing an accurate solution. Critical thinking, even aside from math, will be vital for my career when I need to adjust aspects of a radiography machine or communicate with patients on their care.

MATH - 4.3 LAB