Syllabus for MAT0012:  Pre-Algebra
Fall 2009 - Regular Session

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.

IMPORTANT DATES
St. Petersburg College Academic Calendar, 2009-2010
Deadline to drop with refund:  8/28/2009
Deadline to withdraw without refund: 10/29/2009

REQUIRED COURSE MATERIALS       
•  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 has an e-book version)

INSTRUCTOR INFORMATION
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PREREQUISITES
All students must possess basic computer skills.

COURSE DESCRIPTION
3 credits
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.

College Preparatory Credits (0000 designations) may not be used toward graduation credits.

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.

 

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.

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.)

CLASS CONDUCT POLICY
Students are expected to communicate with others in a respectful, appropriate and polite manner.  Cell phones and beepers can become very disruptive to class. 
Please be sure to turn off or silence them prior to entering the classroom.  Students are expected to complete all quizzes, tests, and exams without assistance. 
Students are responsible for following all SPC policies as outlined in the Student Code of Conduct Manual.  Failure to comply by these guidelines MAY result in a
student being dropped from the class (without refund) and /or other punitive actions.

ATTENDANCE POLICY
Instructors will verify that students are in attendance once per week during the first two weeks of class and verify active class participation for one week immediately following the 60 percent point of the term. Students will be withdrawn from class at the beginning of the term for inactivity as specified and determined by the instructor. Students will also be withdrawn automatically at the beginning of the term for non-payment of course fees. Otherwise, students will be withdrawn with a grade of W only if they withdraw themselves by the withdrawal deadline. Instructors may implement additional attendance policies as outlined in the class syllabus that may affect student grades and/or enrollment status.

Active class participation for this class 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.

Students and instructors will automatically receive an e-mail notification to the email address(es) on file with SPC whenever a withdrawal occurs.

WITHDRAWAL POLICY
The last day a student can withdraw from this course and receive a grade of W is October 29, 2009.

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: https://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.

CLASSROOM ATTENDANCE POLICY
Students are expected to bring to every class:

•  Notebook for taking notes, homework, and practice problems. 
•  Headphones with a mini-jack

Students that leave class early without permission will be marked as an unexcused absence for that day

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.

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.

COURSE 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).

Unit Reviews (Average is 30 % of final grade)
There are four unit reviews.  You will have multiple attempts on each review, as determined by your instructor.  You must pass each Unit Review with a 70% or higher before your Unit Test will be available.

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.  You must also pass the Unit Review with a 70% or higher before your Unit Test will be available.  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.

LATE ASSIGNMENTS 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.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES

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 RESPONSIBILITIES

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.

TUTORING
Tutoring in math, reading, and writing is available free of charge, either by appointment or by an on-call tutor in the Academic Resource Commons (TE 200). 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 the Academic Chair.

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.htm

SPC helpdesk: 727-341-4357 onlinehelp@spcollege.edu or http://www.spcollege.edu/helpdesk/

PLATO:  http://support.plato.com/instructional/ASalgebra.asp

  

 

SYLLABUS ADDENDUM

In the event that topics listed in this addendum also appear in your syllabus, please note that you should rely on the addendum information as this information is the most current.

 

IMPORTANT COLLEGE POLICY REGARDING COURSE DROP-ADD PERIOD AND AUDIT INFORMATION

Students CANNOT add a course following the 1st day the class meets.  Students CAN drop a course during the 1st week of class and be eligible for a refund. (See a counselor/advisor to finalize your schedule, so you won’t be left without the classes you want or need).  Students may not change from credit to audit status after the end of the first week of classes.

 

GRADING AND REPEAT COURSE POLICIES

State policy specifies that students may not repeat a college credit course for which a grade of “C” or higher has been earned except by appeal to the campus Academic Appeals committee. Students may repeat a college credit course one time without penalty.  At the third attempt, students will pay the full cost of instruction.  The full cost of instruction rate for 2008/2009 is $280.39 per credit hour.  In addition, at the third attempt students may NOT receive a grade of “I,” “W,” or “X,” but must receive the letter grade earned.  This grade will be averaged into the overall grade point average.

 

ATTENDANCE/ACTIVE PARTICIPATION/WITHDRAWAL POLICIES

Each instructor must exercise professional judgment to determine if a student is actively participating in class.   Faculty will publish their own personal participation/attendance policies in their syllabi. This policy will be used to determine grades. Students who are not actively participating in class as defined in an instructor’s syllabus will be reported to the Administration during the week following the voluntary withdrawal date.

Instructors will verify that students are in attendance during the first two weeks of class.  Students classified as “No Show” for both of the first two weeks will be administratively withdrawn.

Immediately following the 60% point of the term, each instructor will verify which students are actively participating in class as defined in the course syllabus.  Students classified as not meeting the criteria for active class participation will be administratively withdrawn with a “WF.”  Students will be able to withdraw themselves at any time during the term.  However, requests submitted after the 60% deadline will result in a “WF.”  Students and instructors will automatically receive an email notification through their SPC email address whenever a withdrawal occurs.

Withdrawing after the “Last Day to Withdraw with a Grade of ‘W’” (see Academic Calendar below) can have serious consequences. If you withdraw from a class after this deadline posted in the academic calendar, you will receive a final grade of ‘WF,’ which has the same impact on your GPA as a final grade of ‘F.’ A ‘WF’ grade also could impact your financial aid and cause you to have to repay some of your assistance. If you are thinking about withdrawing from a class now, you should consult with your academic advisor or financial aid counselor first to be sure you understand all the possible outcomes of this decision.

 

FEDERAL GUIDELINES RELATED TO FINANCIAL AID AND TOTAL WITHDRAWAL FROM THE COLLEGE

The U.S. Department of Education has implemented rules for students who obtain a Pell Grant, Stafford Loan, and/or Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant and subsequently totally withdraw from the College.  The rule requires you to refund to the Department of Education a portion of your financial aid if you completely withdraw from St. Petersburg College prior to the 60% point in the term.  You also may be required to repay funds to the College if you are identified as not actively participating in all of your classes, or if you do not receive at least one final passing grade (D or higher).  Should you consider totally withdrawing from all classes before the published withdrawal date, it is important that you consult the Scholarships & Student Financial Assistance office on your home campus to understand your options and the consequences of total withdrawal.

 

DUAL ENROLLMENT, EARLY ADMISSIONS, & EARLY COLLEGE STUDENTS

A Dual Enrollment, Early Admissions, or Early College student may not withdraw from any college level course without consultation with the Early College/Dual Enrollment office.  Withdrawal from a course may jeopardize the student’s graduation from high school.  The Dual Enrollment office can be reached at 712-5281 (TS), 791-5970 (CL) or 394-6000 (SE).

 

ACADEMIC HONESTY

St. Petersburg College has an Academic Honesty policy. It is your responsibility to be familiar with the policies, rules, and the consequences of violations.  There is no tolerance for cheating and academic dishonesty. Discipline can range from a zero on a specific assignment to expulsion from the class with a grade of F. Note that copy/pasting published information, whether it's from your textbook or the Internet, without citing your source is plagiarism and violates this policy. Even if you change the words slightly the ideas are someone else's so you still have to cite your sources. Cheating, plagiarism, bribery, misrepresentation, conspiracy, and fabrication are defined in Board Rule 6Hx23-4.461. Student Affairs:  Academic Honesty Guidelines, Classroom Behavior.  http://www.spcollege.edu/webcentral/catalog/current/stu_affairs_honesty.htm

 

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

All electronic devices such as cell phones, beepers, pagers, and related devices are to be turned off prior to entering the classroom, library, and laboratories to avoid disruption.  Use of any device in these areas is a violation of College Policy and subject to disciplinary action.

College computers are intended for academic work.  Inappropriate use of computers during class time is prohibited.  Students should understand that they may be required to use the Internet for some courses.  Furthermore, students may be required to have discussions of class assignments and share papers and other class materials with instructors and classmates via chat rooms and other mechanisms.  Therefore, Internet users may be able to access students’ work whether the access is secured or unsecured.  The College cannot protect students from the type of materials on the Internet or the potential piracy of students’ materials. 

Each student’s behavior in the classroom or Web course is expected to contribute to a positive learning/teaching environment, respecting the rights of others and their opportunity to learn. No student has the right to interfere with the teaching/learning process, including the posting of inappropriate materials on chatroom or Web page sites.

The instructor has the authority to ask a disruptive student to leave the classroom, lab, or Web course and to file disciplinary charges if disruptive behavior continues

 

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS

In the event that a hurricane or other natural disaster causes significant damage to St. Petersburg College facilities, you may be provided the opportunity to complete your course work online.  Following the event, please visit the college Web site for an announcement of the College’s plan to resume operations.

 

Students should familiarize themselves with the emergency procedures and evacuation routes located in the buildings they use frequently.  Located in each classroom is an Emergency Response Guide (flip-chart) that contains information for proper actions in response to emergencies.  Students should be prepared to assess situations quickly and use good judgment in determining a course of action.  Students should evacuate to assembly areas in an orderly manner when an alarm sounds or when directed to do so by college faculty or staff or emergency services personnel.  Students may access additional emergency information by going to http://www.spcollege.edu/central/campussecurity/.  In face to face courses your instructor will review the specific campus plans for emergency events.

 

CAMPUS SAFETY AND SECURITY

For information on campus safety and security policies please contact 791-2560.  If there are questions or concerns regarding personal safety, please contact the Provost, Associate Provost, Campus Security Officer, or Site Administrator on your campus. http://www.spcollege.edu/tsc/security.htm

 

SEXUAL PREDATOR INFORMATION

Federal and State law requires a person designated as a “sexual predator or offender” to register with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).  The FDLE is then required to notify the local law enforcement agency where the registrant resides, attends, or is employed by an institution of higher learning. Information regarding sexual predators or offenders attending or employed by an institution of higher learning may be obtained from the local law enforcement agency with jurisdiction for the particular campus by calling the FDLE hotline (1-888-FL-PREDATOR) or (1-888-357-7332), or by visiting the FDLE website at http://offender.fdle.state.fl.us/offender/homepage.do

 

SPECIAL ACCOMMODATIONS

If you wish to request accommodations as a student with a documented disability, please make an appointment with the Learning Specialist on campus.  If you have a documented hearing loss, please contact the Program for the Deaf/Hard of Hearing at 727-791-2628.  If you will need assistance during an emergency classroom evacuation, please contact your campus learning specialist immediately about arrangements for your safety.  The Office of Services for Students with Disabilities can be reached at 791-2628 or 791-2710 (CL), 341-4758 (SP/G), 394-6108 (SE), 712-5789 (TS), 341-3721 (HEC) or 341-4532 (AC).  http://www.spcollege.edu/webcentral/catalog/Current/ossd.htm

 

 

ANGEL MAINTENANCE

The ANGEL system will be completely unavailable due to scheduled maintenance from 7:00am March 9th until 11:59pm March 10th.

 

COLLEGE CALENDAR:  http://www.spcollege.edu/webcentral/admit/dates.htm.