MAT 103A – College Algebra (Part I)

Winter 2008

INSTRUCTOR:                     Helen Shen

PHONE:                                  530-541-4660, Extension 364

E-MAIL:                                 shen@ltcc.edu

OFFICE HOURS:                  Mon. & Wed.  1:00 - 1:30 PM, 3:30 - 4:00 PM

                                                Tue.                 3:00 - 4:30 PM

                                                Thurs.               12:00 – 1:00 PM, 3:00 – 3:30 PM                   

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

REQUIRED TEXT:               Precalculus, 4^th Edition, Sullivan & Sullivan III. Check out the Solutions Manual for this course before purchasing it to see if the book meets your needs.

COUSE DESCRIPTION:      This course provides an in-depth coverage of functions: polynomial and rational functions, their graphs, and finding solutions and zeros of polynomial functions. Special emphasis will be placed on applications problems and the use of calculators.

PREREQUISITE:                  A grade of C or better in Math 154 or equivalent or appropriate skills demonstrated through the math assessment process.

CALCULATORS:                 A graphing calculator is required for this class. I will be demonstrating with Texas Instrument-89. I will do my best to assist with other models. TI-84 Plus SE is a good model if you have one.

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.

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.

GRADING POLICY:           Method of Student Evaluation

                                                Homework (20 sections at 6 points each)                      120 points

                                                Quizzes* (Three at 40 points each)                               120 points

                                                Exams* (Three at 120 points each)                               360 points

                                                Final (Covers entire course content)                              200 points                               

Your letter grade will be based on your percentage of the 800 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 up to one week after it is assigned for half credit. 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.

·        Please come see me if you do not understand my policies.

·        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.

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, February 1; Last day to drop the class with no penalty or mark on your

    record.

                                                ·    Friday, February 22; Last day to drop the class and receive a grade of W.

·    After February 22, 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 MSC (Math Success Center) on a drop-in basis, Mon-Fri.

HOW TO SUCCEED            1) Come to every class meeting. Be prepared, and plan on participating.

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 the book. It’s important to learn how to read the math textbook to enhance your understanding.

4) Do all of the homework. The homework assigned is a bare minimum; the more practice you do, the better understanding you will have.

5) Do some math every day.

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

7) Be willing to ask questions.

8) Take notes.

                                                9) Study in groups and find a study buddy.

Tentative Lecture Schedule for Math 103A

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