MAT 152A Basic Algebra Part I
Fall ‘05, Section 3
Course Outline and Syllabus

Instructor:                  Steve Richardson   
Office:                         D127                          
Meeting Venue:          A211, MW  4:00 - 5:50
Phone:                         541-4660 extension 333
email:                          richardson@ltcc.edu          

Class Schedule and Assignments (subject to revision):

Required Textbook:           Elementary and Intermediate Algebra, Second Edition, Dugopolski, McGraw-Hill, 2006, ISBN 0-07-302224-1

Course Overview:

This course will study the basic concepts of algebra. Topics covered will include the real numbers and their properties; the four basic operations with positive and negative numbers; simplifying algebraic expressions; solving and graphing linear equations, inequalities, and absolute value equations in one variable; graphing linear equations and inequalities in two variables; an introduction to polynomials; properties of integral exponents including scientific notation; and a brief introduction to functions.

Goals and Objectives:

The successful student will:

• Exhibit a proficiency in the topics covered in this course
• Engage in logical and critical thinking
• Read technical information
• Demonstrate the solution to problems by translating written language into mathematical statements, interpreting information, sketching relevant diagrams, analyzing given information, formulating appropriate math statements, and checking and verifying results.

Suggestions, Tips and Advice:

• Class time is valuable.  Arrive on time, be prepared having read the assigned reading and having completed any due assignments.
• Bring your notebook and your textbook to each class
• Take notes in class
• The textbook has been carefully selected.  Read it! 
• Practice. You must practice in order to succeed at math. Do some math every day.
• Use me and the tutors available to ask questions and get help.

Exams:

There will be two midterm exams given in the quarter. We will have a comprehensive final examination.

Quizzes:

There are four quizzes scheduled.

Homework Assignments:

There will be 10 homework assignments. These are due at the beginning of class on Mondays commencing with week 2. Assignments may be turned in up to one week late for a maximum of half-credit.

Online Grades

You can find your scores on the web here, or by searching for our course at http://www.gradesource.com/

Evaluation Criteria:

Grading will be based on your total scores from:

No extra credit work will be assigned or accepted.

The letter grade assigned will be based on the following cutoffs:

Help:

I am here to help you learn.  I want you to succeed in this course and beyond.  Use me as your resource.  See me during my office hours.  Do not hesitate to make arrangements to see me anytime outside of class or office hours. Make arrangements with me if you have any difficulties or special needs.  We have tutoring and a Learning Assistance Center available.  We have the Gateway Math Center with tutors, computers and help available. We have a Learning Disabilities Lab available and I will accommodate any learning disability you may have to the best of my and the College’s ability.  If you find that you are lost or behind please do not hesitate to see me.

A Word on Honesty:

Cheating or copying will not be tolerated. People who cheat dilute the honest effort of the rest of us.  If cheat on a quiz or exam you will receive an F  for the course, not merely for the test.  Other college disciplinary action including expulsion might occur. Please don’t cheat in this class.  If you are having difficulty with the course, please see me.