Course Policies:

Course Description:  This course reviews introductory algebraic concepts, and includes the study of real numbers, the solutions and applications of linear equations and inequalities as well as systems of linear equations, and introduces coordinate graphing of linear equations, factoring techniques, and simplification of rational and radical expressions, and the solution of quadratic equations. This course bridges the gap between arithmetic and formal algebra, developing.

Course Objectives and Methods of Evaluation:

1. Course objectives (list the major objectives stated as student outcomes in behaviorally measurable terms.)

2.  
   1. Use the specialized vocabulary describing the real number system and its properties as well as the fundamentals of algebra.
   2. Manipulate (evaluate, simplify, or factor) algebraic expressions, including expressions with fractions and radicals.
   3. Solve linear equations and inequalities, systems of linear equations, and quadratic equations.
   4. Solve various application problems which feature the mathematics under study using elementary modeling techniques.
   5. Graph linear equations and systems of linear equations on a coordinate plane, isolating features such as intercepts and slope.

Attendance:   Attendance will be taken every class session and you must log onto Coursecompass at least twice a week by posting a thread which will count as your attendance.  Students with two consecutive absences MAY be dropped from the class!  Any student who misses two exams will be dropped from the class.  Students are responsible for any material/announcements missed in class regardless of their presence including being aware of your status in the class.  You are expected to be present on time at all class meetings and to actively participate!

You are expected to be at all class meetings on time!! Taken this class seriously is the first step to your success. 

           Withdrawal from the class through the Admissions Office is the student’s responsibility.  If you have any concerns regarding your attendance please contact me immediately via email, telephone or during my office hours. 

Syllabus:

Math 40 Elementary Algebra Friday 9:00am-10:55am Math 40 Fall 2009 Syllabus

Class work:     You will often be given class work and it may be collected at any  
                         time during class. No makeup work is possible for missed class work. 

Quizzes:          There will be 18 quizzes via on-line and additional 8 quizzes in class. There are no make-ups on quizzes. The work you do to complete online quizzes should be neatly written in your notebook together with the assignment title and the grade you earned. No late quizzes will be given.

Exams:            There will be four exams and a comprehensive final at the end of the 16 weeks semester.  The four exams and the final.  No make-up exams will be given but your final exam will only replace one missed exam.  Contact me immediately if you miss an exam. Students who miss more than one exam will be dropped from the class.  Tentative exam dates are noted on the Class Schedule at the end of this syllabus.

Students with Special Needs: Any student who feels that he or she may qualify for accommodations for any type of disability, please see me immediately with the proper documentation.

Keys to success:  It is expected that students spend a minimum of at least five hours outside of class for each hour spent in class.  Spending more time on material from class and explaining concepts to other students in class is an excellent way of achieving success. Active participation is very  important.  Ask questions, answer questions, talk to other students in class, form study groups outside of class, and always remember to ponder beyond what  we discuss in class!  Next, remember to keep an open mind.  A big part of learning andunderstanding mathematics is believing that you are capable of succeeding.  Always remember to have fun!! 

Students will be assessed through class participation, their performance on exams, quizzes, and assignments.  The completion of the assignments will prepare you for each quiz/exam.  You are expected to complete each assignment by the next class meeting so that you are ready to ask questions in class.  You should see me for assistance as soon as an exercise is not understood, but not without first seriously attempting to do the problem on your own.  It is highly recommended that you also take advantage of the various tutoring services offered on campus.  It is your own responsibility to have an interest in your education!

I look forward to a fun Fall of 2008!

Grades:           Discussion Board                                        54 points (2pts per thread)

Exams (4):                                                180 each

                        Quizzes (18 on-line)                                   180 points

                        Quizzes (8 in-class)                                    80 points

                        Homework (on-line)                                    56 points                           

Final Exam:                                               300 points

Grading Scale:   A 90 - 100%     C 70 – 79%      F under 60%

                        B 80 - 89%       D 60 – 69%