Course Syllabus for Math 102: Elementary Algebra, Fall 2003
Mathematics Department Arts and Sciences Division -
I took the
road less traveled by, and that has made all the difference. Robert Frost
Office: ST 118
Phone: 545-3360 EXT 3360 or 800-642-0859
Appointments for extra help with math may be
made by contacting the instructor.
Text: Elementary and Intermediate Algebra (A Combined Approach), 3rd Edition, by
Jerome Kaufmann, Brooks/Cole Publishing Company, and Copyright 2002
Course Description for Math
102 Credit Hours: 4.0
This is a course intended for students with little
or no background in algebra; however, good arithmetic skills are needed. This
course covers concepts in whole numbers, fractions, decimals, polynomials and
linear equations, but it is not limited only to those areas.
Materials Required:
Textbook, loose-leaf paper, pencils
Suggested: Scientific calculator to
be used following chapter two, notebook/folder
Grading Policy:
Grades will be based on participation, homework, quizzes, tests, and a comprehensive final exam
Participation = approximately 5-10 points per chapter (about 5% final grade)
Homework = approximately 10-25
points per chapter (about 10% final grade)
Quizzes = approximately 30 points per chapter (about
15% final grade)
Tests = approximately 100 points per
chapter (about 50% final grade)
Final Exam = Final Exam will be comprehensive and 20%
of final course grade
Grading Scale
A = 90%- 100%
B = 80% - 89%
C = 70% - 79%
D = 60% - 69%
F = Below 60%
Attendance:
Attendance is expected and is beneficial for successful completion of this course. Students are expected to attend ALL scheduled class periods. If more than two weeks of classes are missed without a valid excuse, a student may be withdrawn from the class with an F. Students will not be allowed to make up homework, quizzes, or tests. For emergency situations, approval MAY be given for a missed class. The lowest test score may be dropped. Arrive on time and sign the attendance sheet for each class to receive full credit for course work that day.
Tardiness:
It is disrespectful to others to interrupt a scheduled class. Arriving late for class will affect your grade. Participation scores will be lowered, homework may not be accepted, and extra time will not be given to complete quizzes or tests.
Make-Up Policy:
As stated earlier, for emergency situations,
approval MAY be given for a missed class. If possible, students must meet with
the instructor before missing a class to discuss the extreme circumstance. If
this is not possible, students must meet with the instructor prior to the next
class meeting.
Chapters to Be Covered:
Chapter 1: Some Basic Concepts
of Arithmetic and Algebra
Chapter 2: The Real Numbers
Chapter 3: Equations, Inequalities, and Problem Solving
Chapter 4: Formulas and Problem Solving
Chapter 5: Coordinate Geometry and Linear Systems
Chapter 6: Exponents and Polynomials
Chapter 7: Factoring, Solving Equations, and Problem
Solving
If Time Permits:
Chapter 8: A
Transition from Elementary Algebra to Intermediate Algebra
Math 102 Elementary Algebra
Outcomes:
After successful completion of Math 102 a student should be able to perform the following at a 70% success rate. (C or better)
1.
Solve a first-degree equation and inequality and
use the equation to solve simple application problems.
2.
Apply the rules of exponents to simplify
expressions.
3.
Apply the principals learned to solve ratios, proportions,
and percent problems.
4.
Solve systems of equations in two variables
graphically and algebraically. Also, solve a system of linear inequalities.
5.
Use the rectangular coordinate system to graph
linear equations and inequalities.
6.
Solve a system of linear equations and
inequalities.
7.
Perform the basic operations and factor
polynomials.
Student Support Services:
College
Enhancement Center 545-3078
Campus Library 545-3130
Student Computer Lab 545-3098
Counseling Center 545-3066
Important Dates:
August
22 Last day to drop a
class and receive full refund
August 29 Last day to drop a class and receive one-half
refund
November 25 Last day to withdraw with a W
A note of encouragement:
I look forward to working with you during this course.
As with any math course, a dedication is needed toward both the completion of
assignments and preparation for quizzes and exams. All odd-numbered problems
have the answers in the back of the textbook. This is designed to give you a
guide to understanding the concepts presented in each section. We will work
several examples together during class; in addition, the text provides sample
problems for you to study.
You need to know that this course will not be easy. If
you have difficulty understanding a concept, please do not hesitate to ask
questions during class; your questions will help the other students! You may
also stop by my office, and I will be happy to answer your questions. There are
videos and websites to assist your learning. Be sure to take advantage of the
CEC lab where math tutoring is available. Please make an appointment in
advance. Evening hours by appointment will be offered in addition to the
regular hours Monday through Friday, 8-4.
It is my goal that you will have a good experience with
mathematics and leave this class with the confidence to pursue future
mathematics courses. We are a team working together to bring you success.
There are no shortcuts! Rafe Esquith