MAT 152A – BASIC ALGEBRA (Part I)

Summer 2007

INSTRUCTOR:                     Helen Shen

PHONE:                                  530-577-4515 (home), leave message

E-MAIL:                                 htshen00@hotmail.com

LTCC MATH PAGE:            http://www.ltcc.edu/academics.asp?scatID=5&catID=34

REQUIRED TEXT:               Elementary and Intermediate Algebra, by Mark Dugopolsky

RECOMMENDED TEXT:   Student Solution Manual, prepared by Mark Dugopolsky

COUSE DESCRIPTION:      Welcome to your first algebra class here at LTCC.  In this course we will study the basic concepts of algebra.  The following topics might sound more like Greek right now, but don’t worry; they will make sense as we proceed through the class. Topics covered include the real numbers and their properties, solving linear equations and inequalities, the four basic operations with polynomials, graphing linear functions and inequalities in two variables, properties of exponents and an introduction to functions. 

STUDENT OUTCOMES:     The successful student will

1.      exhibit a proficiency in the topics covered in the course;

2.      engage in logical and critical thinking;

3.      read technical information; and 

4.      demonstrate the solution to problems by translating written language into mathematical statements, interpreting information, sketching relevant diagrams, analyzing given information, formulating appropriate mathematical statements, and checking and verifying results.

RECOMMENDED

PREREQUISITE:                  A grade of C or better in Math 181A-D, Math 187B, or equivalent, or satisfactory score in Mathematics Assessment Test.

GRADING POLICY:           Method of Student Evaluation

                                                Homework                                                                     90 points

                                                Exams* (Three at 100 points each)                             300 points

                                                Quizzes* (Three at 20 points each)                               60 points

                                                Final (Covers entire course content)                            150 points

Your letter grade will be based on your percentage of the 600 possible points.

                                                            A         90-100%        

                                                            B        80-89%

                                                            C        70-79%                        

                                                            D        60-69%

                                                            F        less than 60%

EXAM POLICY:                    Grading will be based on progress towards the final answer, and the demonstration of understanding of the concept that is being tested. The more you show me with steps and detail, the better your chances for partial credit.  You provide me the communication and detail in your answers; and I will give you the best grade I can based on that communication and answer.

MAKE-UP POLICY:             For Quizzes, there is no make-up, however if the absence is excused, you will receive the same percentage grade on the quiz as you earn on the exam, which covers the same material. 

For Exams and Final, make-up is possible, but there is a 10% penalty if the absence is not excused.  The absence is excused for medical reasons or emergencies.

For Homework, you must show your work to get credit, half credit for completion and half credit for selected problems. Homework will be accepted late for minus two points per day. You can turn in your homework early if you know you are going to miss the class. You can consult a classmate, a tutor, your instructor, or anyone for assistance on the homework.

LEARNING                           If you have a learning disability, be sure to discuss your special needs with me

DISABILITIES:                    during the first week of class. Learning disabilities will be accommodated.

REGISTRATION:                ·   You must register for this class at the Office of Admissions and Records.

                                                ·    Friday, July 13; Last day to drop the class with no penalty or mark on your

    record.

                                                ·    Friday, July 27; Last day to drop the class and receive a grade of W.

·    After July 27, if you are enrolled, you will receive some kind of grade.

·    In this class, it is your responsibility to drop the class in order to avoid a grade.

TUTORING:                          Tutors are available at no cost in GMC (The Gateway Math Center) on a drop-in basis. The phone number is 541-4660 x741.

HOW TO SUCCEED            1) Come to every class meeting.

IN A MATH CLASS:            2) Arrive early, get yourself settled and be ready when class starts.  Sit where you won't be distracted.

3) Read each section before it is discussed in class.

4) Do all of the homework.

5) Do some math every day.

6) Start preparing for tests at least a week in advance.

7) Take advantage of tutors and office hours, extra help can make a big    difference.

8) Do some review every time you study math.

9) Be willing to ask questions.

10) Take notes.

                                                11) Study in groups and find a study buddy.

HELEN’S COMMITMENT TO THIS CLASS:

·        I will give this class 100% of my attention while we are meeting.

·        I will come to class well prepared.

·        I will be here on time.

·        I will not shortchange the students in this class by setting low standards.

·        I will put 100% of my effort into being the best possible teacher for the students in this class.

·        I will listen and seek to understand what is being said. Due to English is my secondary language, please be sure to ask me if you have any difficulty to understand math due to my accent, and I will clarify.

Lecture Schedule for Math 152A

There are total 9 assignments, each assignment is worth 10 points, and I will select 10~20 problems (will include the even numbers assigned) to grade for each assignment. You must show your work to get credit, half credit for completion and half credit for selected problems. Be sure to use class time, office hours, and the Gateway Math Center to get all of your questions answered.

EOO means Every Other Odd (i.e. #1, 5, 9, 13, …)