MAT 0012: Pre-Algebra
Spring 2010 - 420
DISCLAIMER:
This
syllabus provides information about class policies and
procedures that are generally accepted college-wide for Academic
Systems classes. However, your instructor may amend this
syllabus with additional policies or changes to these policies.
Consult with your instructor if you have questions about any
college or classroom policies.
INSTRUCTOR:
ACADEMIC DEPARTMENT:
Dean: Sharon Griggs
Office Location: SP/G – SA 215
Office Number: 727-341- 4305
Academic Chair: Lisa Borzewski
Office Location: UP 337F
Office Number: 727 - 394 - 6170
COURSE INFORMATION:
Course Description:
This course is a study of the basic skills and concepts of
pre-algebra from the point of view of the college student
who needs to an understanding of pre-algebra. Major topics
include operations with integers, fractions, decimals,
percents, geometric figures and their measures, and
pre-algebra topics including simplification of polynomials
and equation solving techniques. Three hours weekly.
Course Goals:
1. The student will demonstrate knowledge of mathematical
concepts, properties and terminology when working with
rational numbers.
2. The
student will demonstrate an understanding of algorithmic
processes and concepts by performing basic algebraic
manipulations, solving equations, interpreting results and
graphing on a number line.
Course Objectives:
1. The student will demonstrate knowledge of mathematical
concepts, properties and terminology when working with
rational numbers by:
a. using precise mathematical
language.
b. solving word problems using operations involving
rational numbers, rounding where appropriate.
c. making conversions among
fractions, decimals, and percents.
d. distinguishing between linear,
square and cubic measures.
e. determining the
perimeter/circumference of geometric figures including
polygons, circles and composite
figures.
f. determining the area of
geometric figures including polygons, circles, and composite
figures.
g. determining the volume of
rectangular solids and right circular cylinders.
h. using the common metric prefixes
to convert from one metric unit to another.
i. selecting an appropriate metric
unit of measurement given a specific situation.
j. giving a reasonable estimate
when provided with a real world situation.
2. The student will demonstrate an understanding of
algorithmic processes and concepts by performing basic
algebraic manipulations, solving equations, interpreting
results and graphing on a number line by:
a. applying the order of operations
including parentheses and exponents to simplify expressions.
b. evaluating mathematical formulas
by substituting rational numbers into assigned variables.
c. simplifying collection of like
terms.
d. solving and checking the
solution(s) of linear equations in one variable involving
rational numbers.
e. graphing simple linear
inequalities such as x < a or x b on a number line.
f. solving word problems involving
percentages.
g. writing and solving ratio and
proportion word problems.
Prerequisites:
All students must possess basic computer skills.
College Preparatory Credits (0000
designations) may not be used toward graduation credits.
REQUIRED TEXTBOOK & OTHER RESOURCE INFORMATION:
• Validation Code Kit (Academic Systems/Plato: Part #97609768KIT)
• Access to a computer and the internet (https://asalgebra.platoweb.com/)
• Headphones with a mini-jack for audio within the software.
• Textbook can be purchased if needed (the course online curriculum
contains an e-book version)
MEETING INFORMATION:
Please see your instructor’s
syllabus.
IMPORTANT DATES:
DISCIPLINE SPECIFIC INFORMATION:
Academic Systems Access:
This class is taught using a
software program called Academic Systems Algebra (ASA),
which is a multimedia interactive full-course curriculum
designed and delivered by Academic Systems Corp., a division
of PLATO Learning. Students should use the internet to
access class-related resources only. Students using
computers and the internet on campus may be subject to
electronic monitoring.
Since the subject matter is
delivered by your interaction with the computer software,
keep in mind this is neither self-paced nor and independent
study class. It is guided, student-centered,
computer-delivered curriculum which fosters early completion
of a course. This is not a self-paced or independent study
class.
Internet Usage and Electronic
Devices:
Students will use the internet on
campus to access class-related resources only. Students
using computers and the internet on campus may be subject to
electronic monitoring. Inappropriate use will result in
disciplinary action.
All electronic devices such as
cell phones, beepers, pagers, and related devices are to be
turned off prior to entering any classroom, library or
laboratory. Use of any device in these areas is a violation
of College Policy and subject to disciplinary action.
Calculator Policy:
Calculators are prohibited on all
tests and the final exam.
Class Calendar Policy:
Students are responsible for
following the class schedule. Consult your schedule before
you start a new topic. (Note: some topics are out of order
and test dates have already been scheduled.)
Tutoring:
Tutoring in math, reading, and
writing is available free of charge, either by appointment
or by an on-call tutor in the Learning Commons (TL104). Ask
your instructor for more information.
Note: The free assistance
offered by our student tutors is NOT guaranteed by St.
Petersburg College. Although the college attempts to ensure
that you receive quality instruction from our tutors, they
are students just like you. We encourage our tutors to
inform students whenever they are uncertain about a topic.
If at any time you are unsure about the instruction you have
received from a tutor, contact your instructor for more
assistance. If you are unhappy with the service you have
received from a tutor, please contact Paula Ralph at
ralph.paula@spcollege.edu.
Using Angel:
In order to better serve our
faculty and students we are asking that both the instructor
and student use the logoff button when completing online
course work. By logging off, ANGEL server space is freed,
and therefore, optimizing the system. In addition, logging
off will more accurately record students’ time involved in
the course.
Technical
Support:
ANGEL requirements:
http://www.spcollege.edu/ecampus/help/technical/index.shtml
SPC helpdesk:
727-341-4357 onlinehelp@spcollege.edu or www.spcollege.edu/helpdesk/
PLATO:
http://support.plato.com/instructional/ASalgebra.asp
ATTENDANCE:
The college-wide attendance policy is included in the
Syllabus Addendum
http://www.spcollege.edu/webcentral/policies.htm.
The policy notes that each instructor is to exercise professional judgment
and define “active participation” in class (and therefore “attendance”), and
publish that definition in each syllabus. For this class, attendance is
defined as the
completion of at least one Evaluate quiz, test review, or test per week, in
addition to attending at least 80% of scheduled class meetings. Students
not able to complete one of these assignments in a particular week should
notify their instructor immediately. Students that do not meet the active
class participation requirement will be withdrawn from the course with a
failing grade.
WITHDRAW POLICY:
The last day a student can withdraw from this course and
receive a grade of W is March 24, 2010.
It is the responsibility of the student to withdraw from the
course themselves by the withdrawal deadline. Any student
wishing to withdraw from the course should do so online at:
http://my.spcollege.edu In accordance with college policy,
no student can withdraw from a course after the withdrawal
deadline. Do NOT ask your instructor to withdraw you from
the course. It is your responsibility.
Third attempts: Students attempting this course for the
third time (or more) cannot withdraw (State of Florida
regulation), and failing to meet the attendance requirement
will result in a grade of WF.
GRADING:
Students enrolled after the withdrawal deadline will receive
one of the grades below.
Grading scale:
90+ A
80 – 89 B
70 – 79 C
<70 F or N
Note: Students must pass the final exam with a 70% or
better to pass the class. An N (not complete) will only be
given to those students who put significant effort into the
course and comply with the attendance policy. Continuing
students must consult their current instructor regarding the
possible transfer of grades from a previous semester
UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCES will a student receive a W grade
after the withdrawal deadline. Students on their third
attempt cannot withdraw from the class after the first week.
Late Assignment and Make-Up Policy
Students who miss a test, may request from their instructor
that their missed test score be replaced with their score
from the Final Exam.
Extra Credit
Extra credit is subject to the discretion of each individual
instructor.
All course work must be completed by the appropriate due
dates. A grade of zero will be assigned to any course
requirement not completed.
ASSIGNMENTS:
Assigned Readings/Homework Assignments
Students are expected to read each assigned chapter or
resource and complete any and all assigned homework. Except
the Fundamentals (F lessons) and the Essentials (E lessons),
the computer software assigns homework according to your
progress in the Explain and Apply modules. The homework
assigned is the minimum amount of work that should be
completed by the student. Completion of additional work to
further comprehension of particular concepts is recommended.
Students who choose not to complete assigned homework will
struggle in class. All homework should be done neatly and
orderly in your notebook.
Quizzes (Evaluates)
– three attempts (Average is 20 % of final grade)
At the end of each section, take the computer quiz (called
Evaluate) in class. You may take the Evaluate quiz up to 3
times per topic, but the computer will count only your
highest score. Upon completion of the course, these scores
will be averaged together for your quiz average. Students
are responsible for completing these quizzes/evaluates in a
timely manner according to the due dates. Any quizzes not
taken by the final exam period will be assigned a grade of
zero (0).
Reviews
(Average is 30 % of final grade)
You will have multiple
attempts on each review, as determined by your instructor.
You are strongly encouraged
to pass each Review with a 70% or higher before
beginning your Unit Test.
Unit Tests
– one attempt (40 % of final grade)
There are four in-class Unit Tests. You should take at
least one Evaluate quiz in each assigned topic before taking
a test for those topics. Show all of your work for the test
in order to receive credit. Students are responsible for
completing tests according to the due dates. Students have
only one attempt on each test. You may not use your book,
notes or any other resources while testing, including other
students. Academic honesty policies will be strictly
enforced. It is the responsibility of the student to act
above suspicion while taking tests.
Class Participation
Students are expected to participate in class discussions
and assignments.
Final Exam
(10% of final grade)
Students must take the final examination on or before the
assigned date on the class schedule. All students must pass
the final exam to pass the class.
All OSSD students must provide appropriate documentation if
they need special arrangements for testing.
STUDENTS’ EXPECTATIONS
Course
Policies and Procedures:
The student is responsible for knowing all course policies
listed in the syllabus and discussed in class.
Class
Participation and Etiquette:
The student is responsible for participating in class and
coming to class prepared. The student will respect the
rights of other students to learn. The student will
communicate with others in a courteous and respectful manner
at all times, including the instructor.
Assignment
Due Dates and Procedures:
The student is responsible for knowing when assignments are
due, the formats required, and the procedures for completing
and submitting assignments.
Academic
Honesty:
The student is expected to know the SPC Academic Honesty
Policy and to act above suspicion at all times with regard
to academic issues.
Attendance:
The student is responsible for attending class on time,
paying attention in class, and remaining in class until
dismissed. The student is responsible for reviewing the
attendance record in ANGEL for inaccuracies and excessive
absences.
INSTRUCTOR’S EXPECTATIONS
Course
Policies and Procedures:
The instructor is responsible for providing a syllabus the
first day of class that clearly explains all course
policies. The instructor will provide a Student Survey of
Instruction for fall and spring semesters. The instructor
will post grades in MySPC by the end of the semester.
Class
Participation and Etiquette:
The instructor will create a learning environment in the
classroom that engages students and facilitates learning.
The instructor is responsible for coming to class prepared.
The instructor will enforce the right of all students to
learn. The instructor will communicate with students in a
courteous and respectful manner at all times. The
instructor will respond to emails within 48 hours, 5 of 7
days per week.
Assignment
Due Dates and Procedures:
The instructor will provide clear guidelines and information
regarding when assignments are due, the format required, and
the procedure for completing and submitting assignments.
The instructor will grade all assignments within 7 days of
each due date, with additional time for late assignments, if
accepted.
Academic
Honesty:
The instructor will enforce SPC Academic Honesty policies at
all times.
Attendance:
The instructor will begin and end class on time. The
instructor will maintain student attendance records in ANGEL
for students to access and review. The instructor will
maintain weekly office hours or come to class one half hour
early for questions, as determined by college policy.
STUDENT SURVEY OF INSTRUCTION:
The student survey of instruction
is administered in courses each semester. It is designed to
improve the quality of instruction at St. Petersburg
College. All student responses are confidential and
anonymous and will be used solely for the purpose of
performance improvement.
* Please see the Syllabus Addendum
attached to your instructor’s syllabus or in the Course
Documents Folder within your Angel course.
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