MAT 1033:  Intermediate Algebra
Fall 2009 - 415

Please see instructor’s syllabus.

Instructor Web Page: http://it.spcollege.edu/course_info/

Dean:  Sharon Griggs         

Office Location:  SP–SA 215

Office Number:  727-341-4305

 

Academic Chair:  Tyrone Clinton

Office Location:  SP-SA 215

Office Number:  727-341-3573

Course Description:
Major topics include factoring, algebraic fractions, radicals and rational exponents, complex numbers, quadratic equations, rational equations, linear equations and inequalities, systems of linear equations and inequalities, introduction to functions and applications.   Three hours weekly.

 

Course Goals: 

1.    The student will demonstrate an understanding of properties and terminology when working with mathematical expressions.

2.    The student will demonstrate an understanding of algorithmic processes and concepts when performing algebraic manipulations, interpretations and computations on mathematical expressions, equations and inequalities.

 

Course Objectives:

1.    The student will demonstrate an understanding of properties and terminology when working with mathematical expressions by:
               a.  using precise mathematical language.
               b.  applying the order of operations agreement to simplify expressions involving
                    integers, exponents and radicals.
               c.  simplifying and performing operations with radical expressions.
               d.  using functional notation to evaluate a function.

2.    The student will demonstrate an understanding of algorithmic processes and concepts when performing algebraic manipulations, interpretations and computations on mathematical expressions, equations and inequalities by:
              a.  solving literal equations which involve factoring a common factor.
              b.  multiplying and dividing exponential expressions with rational exponents.
              c.  factoring polynomials including the sum and difference of cubes.
              d.  adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing algebraic fractions including 
                   monomial, binomial, and trinomial denominators expressing the result in
                   simplified form.
              e.  solving radical equations involving one radical expression (square root).
              f.  writing an equation in slope-intercept, standard and general form for a line
                  which passes through two given points.
              g.  writing an equation in slope-intercept, standard and general form for a line
                  when given the slope and a point on the line.
              h.  solving systems of linear equations in two variables graphically and 
                  algebraically.
              i.  solving systems of linear inequalities in two variables by graphing.
              j.  solving real world problems using one or two variables.
              k.  solving quadratic equations by factoring, completing the square and using the
                  quadratic formula.
              l.  solving real world problems which require the use of quadratic equations.
             m.  graphing quadratic functions including finding the vertex, axis of symmetry and
                  x- and y-intercepts.
             n.  solving rational equations.
             o.  performing operations on complex numbers and write the answer in standard
                  form (a + bi).

Prerequisites: 
All students must possess basic computer skills.  MAT 0024 or appropriate score on mathematics placement test.

 

•  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)
 

Please see your instructor’s syllabus.
 

Important Dates:  http://www.spcollege.edu/webcentral/admit/dates0910.htm
Deadline to drop with refund:  8/28/2009
Deadline to withdraw without refund: 10/29/2009

Financial Aid: http://www.spcollege.edu/central/SSFA/HomePage/calendar.htm
 

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:

There is no calculator requirement for this course; however, the preferred graphing calculator for future courses is the TI-83 plus or the TI-84 plus.  Calculators may be used 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 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

 

  

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.

 

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.

 

Students enrolled after the withdrawal deadline will receive one of the grades below:

Grading scale:

90+ A
80 – 89 B
70 – 79 C
60 – 69 D
<60 F

NOTE:  Students receiving a D are strongly encouraged to repeat this class.  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.

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 lesson in the Academic Online curriculum (ASA), there is a computer quiz called and Evaluate.  You may take the Evaluate quiz up to 3 times per topic, but the computer will count only your highest score.  It is advisable that you complete the practice Evaluate in the Personal Academic Notebook first, before attempting the quiz online.  You may not use your book nor your notes during the Evaluates.  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 Tests – one attempt (Average is 20 % of final grade)
You will be taking four unit tests according to the Class Schedule.  It is your responsibility to complete those tests by the deadline designated by your instructor (please refer the Class Schedule).  You should take at least one Evaluate quiz in each assigned topic before taking a test for those topics.  You should also pass the Unit Review with a 70% or higher before you take each Unit Test.  Show all of your work for the test in order to receive credit. 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.

Midterm Exam – one attempt (30 % of final grade)
The Midterm Exam must be taken in class by the date assigned in the Class Schedule.  You should pass the Midterm Review with a 70% or higher before you take the Midterm Exam.  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.

Final Exam – one attempt (30% of final grade)
Students must take the final examination on or before the assigned date on the class schedule.  You should pass the Final Review with a 70% or higher before you take the Final Exam.  Approved calculators are permitted on exams; books and notes are not permitted. 

All OSSD students must provide appropriate documentation if they need special arrangements for testing.
 

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.
 

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.

 

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.