General Class Rules

Developmental Education Unit Mathematics, Computer Science, & Physics Department

MSU Math 091-Beginning Algebra Individualized Instruction 2015-2016

Mrs. K. Halsey e-mail: [email protected] Phone: (606) 674-6325

Welcome to math class!! Why take algebra? Algebra enhances your logical reasoning and problem solving skills. This class will help increase your potential for success in college, the job market, and life in general.

The mission of the MSU Developmental Mathematics Program is to provide students with the tools needed to become proficient and independent learners of mathematics with the knowledge, attitudes, and skills needed to succeed both academically and personally.

Individualized Instruction is based on a “mastery” approach. You have the option of taking a Pre-test before working on a chapter. If you obtain a score of 80% or higher on any section, you will receive full credit for that section. You must demonstrate that you have mastered the necessary skills on a given chapter to move to the next unit. If you fall behind in completing the lessons scheduled you must attend tutoring or work at home to get caught up with the material.

Class Credit: Students will receive high school credit for senior math course. Upon completion of Intermediate Algebra a placement test will be given to check for college readiness. Please be aware that work that is not completed by the due date will automatically get a grade of zero. As soon as you complete the assignment or test, the grade will be replaced. Staying up to date in this class is extremely important!

Textbook/Software: M091 – Beginning Algebra by Wright, Hawkes Publishing, (Textbooks are available to check out of the classroom) http://www.hawkeslearning.com/moreheadIDA 1-800-426-9538 –for Technical Support

**If the course is not completed, software must be paid for before the course end date. ($60)

Class Format: This is a computer-based, individualized instruction class. It is designed for self-motivated learners. There may be short lectures or mini-lectures given to small groups of students. Most of the class time will be spent in individual instruction given to students who need assistance while they are engaged in learning and run into difficulties in understanding. MSU Math 091-Beginning Algebra

Homework: Homework will consist of certifications completed on the computer using Hawkes Learning Systems software. All certifications assigned in a chapter must be completed prior to taking a chapter test. Students can work on certifications online or offline. When working offline, students have to save work on a CD or Jump Drive. Students need to save their work regardless if working offline/online, at school or home.

Tests: Each unit test must be completed before a student can begin certifications on a new unit. This is extremely important to your success.  ALL tests must be taken in the classroom.  ALL tests will be taken without notes or books.  You must not get help from anyone, including the tutors, while taking a test.  You must score a minimum of 70% on the review before being able to take the test.  All electronic test scores must be verified by an instructor or tutor or the score will not count.  Online tests can be retaken up to 2 times (except the final exam). Your score will be the highest of the 2 scores.  The Final Exam is comprehensive. When you complete the course material, you should review, and when you are ready, you should take your final exam. No final exam score should be below 60%.

Attendance: You are expected to attend every class, come prepared, and participate in each class. When in class, you must remain involved in your mathematical work. Get started as soon as you arrive and remain working until the end of class. In this class, every minute counts!

General Class Rules: Facility: It is expected that you respect and abide by the rules of classroom as posted. The computer facilities provided in the classroom are for instructional purposes, as directed by the instructor, only. NO ONE is to surf the Web. Changing any machine configurations is strictly prohibited at all times. Students will use the computer only for math course content unless prior permission is given by instructor.

Honesty: You are expected to follow good ethical standards. Cheating is not tolerated and will have severe consequences.

Noise: Because of the interactive nature of this class, it will be impossible to maintain complete silence. The instructor and tutors will be helping students and answering questions. We want to provide a friendly and relaxed environment where you are free to work at a comfortable pace. Please be considerate and keep conversations limited to math. Speak softly.

Preparation: You are expected to bring pencil, paper, and notebook to class each day and you are expected to show your work.

Bathroom Use: Please use the bathroom/see the nurse during breaks. Emergencies will be handled as they arise.

On Task: If you get caught up on the lessons, you should work ahead, help other students, or practice for the ACT. Your goal should be to always be ahead. This is a safeguard so that when you run into difficulties, you will have the extra time needed to remain on schedule.

Lagging behind: If you are working behind, you must work outside of the regular classroom, either at home or at school. Late work will have a grade reduction of one point per day for a maximum of 4 points. MSU Math 091-Beginning Algebra

School Closings: In the event that school is out, you can continue to work at home. If you don’t have access to a computer, pick up an exercise set corresponding to the unit you are studying. You may use the message board regularly to enhance your learning and improve your grade.

Grading: 90%+ A Certifications 25% 80-89% B Tests 50% 70-79% C Final Exam 25% 60-69% D Below 60% F

**Students must also meet benchmark on the KYOTE test in order to receive acknowledgement at MSU.

AVAILABLE TUTORING OPPORTUNITIES:  Your instructor  HLS Software has an INSTRUCT and PRACTICE for tutoring purposes  Video clips by MSU Instructors (Hawkes TV)

IMPORTANT Information: If you are registered for this class at MSU and you do not make a “C” or higher you will have an “E” on your university transcript. Your next math class at BCHS will be 093 Intermediate College Algebra.

DISABILITY STATEMENT: In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), all qualified students enrolled in this course are entitled to reasonable accommodations. It is the student’s responsibility to inform the instructor of any special needs before the end of the second week of class. Any student who feels that he/she needs an accommodation for any sort of disability, please make an appointment to see the instructor outside of class or during office hours as soon as possible.

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