Introduction to Algebra

Intermediate Algebra, Math 95 CRN 20297, CLASS CODE 86 Fall 2007 Text: Intermediate Algebra, Rockswold Room IA-219 and Lecture Course Materials Packet Days: Tuesday, Thursday

Instructor Rob Lewis Office ST 215B Office Hours MTWRF 11am to Noon or by appointment Phone 917 – 4759 email [email protected] Web-site http://cf.linnbenton.edu/mathsci/math/lewisr

The Course: For the student who is comfortable with elementary algebra and basic geometrical concepts. The course emphasizes graphing, evaluating, and solving equations involving linear, quadratic, cubic, exponential, logarithmic, square root and cube root functions. Topics also include multiplying and factoring polynomial expressions, rational expressions, rational equations, rational exponents, and complex numbers. Problem solving is emphasized throughout the course.

Welcome! Thanks for choosing LBCC. We are excited about helping you learn mathematics so you can reach your personal goals. We hope that you will find this class fun, rewarding, and a positive experience. To help make this happen we will both:

 Treat each other as adults with the dignity of equals.  Listen with respect when others ask a question.  Show up on time prepared to work, to contribute, and to participate.  Prioritize this class in our lives by avoiding scheduling conflicts.  Learn each others’ first names.  Call in advance when you are unable to attend.

Note: If you are a student with a documented disability, you may be eligible for accommodations through the Office of Disability Services. If you think you may have a disability that affects your learning, see me or call 917-4789.

Organization: The course is divided into three units called modules. Each module has:  several homework assignments  one full class activity  one Module Test In addition to the 3 module tests there is one Proficiency Test and Final Exam.

Grading Course Credit: To receive credit for this class you will do all of the following:  Earn a grade of A, B, C, or D (no F’s).  Pass the 3 Module Tests with a minimum score of 70% on each.  Pass the Proficiency Test with a minimum score of 95%.  Complete two of the three activities.

 Students not earning credit will receive a grade of either WP or Y: WP: For students who have passed at least one module test but not all tests. Y: For students who have not passed any tests.

Your grade average will be calculated based on the following distribution:

 25 % Daily Homework/Quizzes  15 % Activities (all three activities)  60% Tests

A = 90% or better B = 80 to 89% C = 70 to 79% D = 60 to 69%

In-class Activities We will be doing three in-class, full period, learning activities. Your active participation is required. To earn full points, come to class on time, be actively engaged in the learning activity, and complete the written assignment. Class activities will often involve working in groups. So, be fun, positive, and respectful of others, and we will all have a good time.

Homework Reading the text and doing the homework assignments are important to your success in this course. The homework enables you to assess your understanding of the material as well as provide practice.

Homework Groups: Discussing your homework with classmates in or out of class will help you to get the most from the assignments. In class, homework will be reviewed and assessed in “Homework Groups”. These groups will be formed during the first week.

Working in Homework Groups: On days homework is due, gather in your homework group at the beginning of class. The instructor will put on the board the section and problem numbers for about 5 homework problems. Share your work on these problems with your group. Check that each of you has used the appropriate problem solving process and that your answers are correct.

After you have checked the designated problems, take the remaining allotted time to review with your group other questions you may have had in your homework. Often additional problems will be available to work on during this time. While you are discussing homework in your homework groups, I will go from group to group answering any homework questions your group may have.

Grading Homework: ONN = Organized Neatly in Notebook You will assess (grade) your own homework using the following scale:

5 pts: All designated problems have appropriate process and are correct. ONN. 4 pts: Attempted all designated problems but missed one or two. ONN. 3 pts: Attempted all designated problems, missed more than two. ONN. 1 pt: Did not attempt all designated problems or your homework is not organized 0 pts: No problems attempted or not in class on time for team homework review. +1 pt. Bonus: Everyone in your group is present or called before class.

Helpful Hint: Keep a record of your homework scores on the Module Ticket!

Attention: Your instructor, that’s me, reserves the right to require all homework be completed before signing your “Module Test Ticket”.

Notebooks You need to acquire a 3-ring loose-leaf binder (1 to 2 inch) with dividers. Your class notes, homework, and handouts should be organized neatly in the notebook. These notebooks will be evaluated for completeness, organization, and clarity several times during the term. Guidelines: 1. Name and course visible immediately on the inside, or outside, of your notebook 2. Neat and well organized using dividers for each section, i.e. notes, homework, handouts, etc… 3. Standard size paper which fits loose-leaf binder 4. Section number at top of each page and at beginning of new section 5. Problem number circled or otherwise clearly indicated 6. Problems in order assigned 7. Directions, be brief. 8. Work shown 9. “Boxed” solutions

Tests Each module concludes with a test. Each of the 3 module tests is taken in the Learning Center testing area. No module tests are taken in our classroom. The tests are designed to take most people about an hour. You may take as much time as you need as long as you complete the test by the time the Learning Center closes.

To take a module test in the Learning Center, you must bring a photo ID and permission from your instructor, and you must start the test at least an hour before closing time. Please, no cell phones. Many people take tests in the Learning Center and it may be busy. So, being polite to staff and other students helps us all. Thanks! Retests: If you score less than 70% on the module test you will be required to take another test on the same module. The maximum score on your first re-test, if necessary, is 80%. The maximum score on a second re-test, if necessary, is 70%.

What is allowed? You may use on the three tests in the Learning Center only a calculator and a pencil. The Learning Center staff will provide you with scratch paper. Using notes, help-cards, books, cell phones, talking to others in the test area, etc... is cheating and you will earn an F in the course.

Test Deadlines: Test and retest deadlines are strict. Missing a test deadline reduces your maximum possible score from 100% to 80%. Missing a re-test deadline reduces your maximum possible score from 80% to 70%. Deadlines Module 1 Module 2 Module 3 Test 10/19 11/09 11/30 Retest by: 11/02 11/21 12/05 Proficiency Test: November 1, Noon to 12:50 pm. Final Exam: Tuesday, December 4, 12:30 to 2:20 pm

Proficiency Test: To ensure that all students who receive credit for this course have mastered certain essential algebra skills, each student takes a 10 question proficiency test near the middle of the term. You must answer all questions correctly (or miss just part of one) to pass the test. The first proficiency test will be in class on Nov 1. You may take the test as often as necessary in the Learning Center until Saturday, November 30. Help! Whenever you need help please get it. Get it now.  Form a group. You will learn more about calculus and life by working with your peers than with any other person. It is fun and it is rewarding.  Use the “Help Desk” in the learning center. It is free and available on a drop in basis. The learning center is a great place to meet with your group so you have access to the help desk when needed.  Sign-up for a tutor. We have free tutoring available in the Learning Center.  Watch video tapes. These tapes are available at the Learning Center counter for overnight checkout.  Drop by my office. Get extra help from me in my office – drop by during office hours, make an appointment, or just come by when it suits.

Learning Center Hours: Monday and Wednesday: 7:30 am to 7 pm Tuesday and Thursday: 7:30 am to 9 pm Friday 7:30 to 4:00 pm Remember  Start your test at least 1 hour before closing.