MA090-03Syllabus
Beginning Algebra
Course: MA090-03, 4 credits, MTWRF 2:00-2:50
Classroom: Jamrich 3100
Term: Fall 2017
Assistant Professor:Dr.Olga Herman
E-Mail: Expect no more than 24 hour response time, except on weekends.
CellPhone:9062360623, email me first. Use sparingly.
Office Hours*:JXJ 2215, M,T,W,R3:00- 5:00 .*To be sure I am available it is best to appointment via email. Other times also possibly available by email made appointment.
Required Supplies: Aleks 360 access code, 18 weeks Higher Education, ebook included.Cost approx.. $100.00. Deadline for getting an Aleks code is 9/10/17, 5 pm.
Course code for Aleks: LEPH9-39PVW
Optional Textbook:
Beginning and Intermediate Algebra, 4e, Miller, O’Neill, Hyde.
You can buy this directly from the Aleks website at a much reduced price. This text will be put on a 2-hour reserve at the library for use in the library (ask at the front desk).
Other references: These books will be available for 3-day check out at the library.
Basic Math and Pre-algebra for Dummies; Zegarelli, Mark
Algebra II for Dummies; Sterling, Mary Jane
Beginning & Intermediate algebra; Miller, J; O'Neill, M; Hyde, N
Websites for this class:
Educat: educat.nmu.edu Course documents, gradebook,discussion forums
Aleks: Homework, computation quizzes, practice exams, exams, ebook
Instructor website: Math content
Course Description:The study of the fundamental operations of algebra, linear equations and inequalities, exponents, radicals, and basic factoring. Applications are emphasized.
Student Learning Outcomes for Beginning Algebra:
INTEGERS AND RATIONAL NUMBERS
Use order of operations to simplify and perform operations on algebraic expressions
Evaluate algebraic expressions
LINEAR EQUATIONS AND INEQUALITIES
Solve linear equations in one variable
Graph and interpret linear equations
Determine equations of lines
Solve and graph linear inequalities in one variable
Graph linear inequalities in two variables
EXPONENTS AND RADICALS
Apply exponent rules to algebraic expressions
Convert between radical and exponential notation
Simplify radical numbers
FACTORING
Factor polynomials by factoring out the GCF
Use grouping to factor polynomials
Factor difference of two squares
Factor perfect square trinomials
Factor quadratics with leading coefficient 1
APPLICATIONS
Solve applied problems from all areas. To include but not limited to: Pythagorean Theorem, basic geometry, direct and inverse variation
Prerequisites: C-grade or better in OC080 or satisfactory score on math placement exam.
Technical skills: Student must be able to navigate websites including Educat, Aleks and the instructor’s website. They must use and check their @nmu.edu email daily.
Technology requirements: Computer with internet access, scientific calculator. Does not have to be a graphing calculator.
Grades: Grades are based on the following scale
90-100%A
80-89%B
70-79%C
60-69%D
0-59%F
Your grade has the following components:
Portfolio5%
Aleks Homework10%
Quizzes10%
Practice Exams (4)5%
Exams (4)40%
Final Exam 30%
Extra Credit Aleks Pie5%
Portfolio: Organized notebook with your work. See grading rubric.
Aleks Homework: Homework is done in Aleks. You have unlimited attempts until the due date and time. The Aleks program will not allow you to work beyond the due date and time. Extensions are freely granted, send me an email.
Quizzes: Paper and pencil, done in class.
Practice Exams: Take in Aleks program (two attempts). Show work for every problem on your own paper. Number every problem, and keep your work tidy, put in your portfolio.
Exams and Final exam: Paper and pencil, done in class.
Disability needs: If you have a need for disability-related accommodations or services, please inform the Coordinator of Disability Services in the Dean of Students Office at 2001 C. B. Hedgcock Building (227-1700). Reasonable and effective accommodations and services will be provided to students if requests are made in a timely manner, with appropriate documentation, in accordance with federal, state, and University guidelines. Here is the website for disability services:
Academic Integrity: Students are expected to do their own work and follow the university academic honesty policy. This policy can be found in the student handbook. See link here:
Important dates:
Drop: Last day to drop a class with no course record is Sept. 5 5pm. Drop procedure:
Withdrawals: Last day for course withdrawal is Nov. 3, 5pm. I will recommend withdrawal for any student earning below 60%. A W grade and an F grade have the same effect on your full time status. The difference is that an F grade hurts your GPA, but a W grade does not. It always benefits you to get a W, instead of an F. Withdrawal procedure: