MAT
0012: Pre-Algebra
Fall 2010 - 430
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 337H
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 a
regular semester course and receive a grade of W is October
28, 2010. Students wishing to withdraw
from 8 week or other dynamic dated courses
must refer to the
academic calendar.
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.
Evaluates/Quizzes
– 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/evaluates
not taken by the final exam period will be
assigned a grade of zero (0).
Reviews
(Average is 30 % of final grade)
There are four test reviews and a final exam review. 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 test.
Tests
– one attempt (40 % of final grade)
There are four in-class 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.
|
