MTH 243 Elementary Statistics MATH DEPARTMENT
Winter 2016 Riverside Campus Rogue Community College
Meeting Information: R-4 MWTh 5:30 PM – 7:10 PM B 13
Instructor: Moreland Smith
Office: HEC 301
Office Email:
messages with Bea Fredrickson 245-7527
Office Hours: After class or by appointment.
Prerequisites: MTH95, RD30 (or COMPASS test of ≥ College Algebra 25)
TEXT: Statistics: Informed Decisions Using Data , Michael Sullivan, III; 4th ed,
Pearson/Prentice Hall, 2010 ISBN-13: 978-0-321-56802-1
Tools and Supplies: Lined or unlined white paper, ¼ in Graph Paper, Excel software, pencil with HB lead, colored pencils, good eraser;
TI-83/83+/ 84 graphing calculator (required), Textbook and My Stat Lab.
Course Description: Math 243 is both a descriptive and beginning inferential statistics course which covers the following topics: The nature and presentation of data, measures of central tendency and variation, probability, discrete and continuous probability distributions, confidence intervals for estimation of means and proportions and estimation of sample sizes. This is a transfer mathematics course for all social science, mathematics, and business students and many liberal arts majors. Please check with your advisor about this course and how the credits apply to your program of study.
Math 243 ILOs, or . . . where does this course fit? The people of Oregon expect that college graduates will be able to use their college education to succeed in life. That is why Oregon tax payers readily fund the largest proportion of your educational costs at RCC. The skills that lead to life’s success are captured in RCC’s Instructional Learning Outcomes (ILOs). Like all other courses at RCC, Math 243 is designed to get you part of the way to these learning outcomes.
Course Objectives: / Assessment Methods: /1. Obtain data from existing sources or create data and evaluate its relevance and accuracy.
ILOs: Locates, organizes, analyzes, and interprets data; uses numeracy skills for interpretation, synthesis, and analysis of data.
(CT3, AK4) / 1. Computer labs utilized to study large data sets and to simulate events.
Pre and post surveys, class homework, group work, class discussions, and instructor observation.
2. Analyze information and communicate the results to others using oral, written or graphic methods.
ILOs: Expresses ideas clearly in oral, written and visual work; Locates, organizes, analyzes, and interprets data.
(COM2, CT3) / 2. Understanding and application of concepts are tested by written assessment utilizing pencil and paper, computers, and calculators; homework involving the interpretation and solution of various applications and group work is encouraged; computer labs utilized to study large data sets and to simulate events.
Pre and post surveys, class homework, group work, class discussions, and instructor observation.
3. Employ computer to organize, analyze, and communicate information including graphs.
ILOs: Expresses ideas clearly in oral, written and visual work; Locates, organizes, analyzes, and interprets data.
(COM2, CT3) / 3. Understanding and application of concepts are tested by written assessment utilizing pencil and paper, computers, and calculators; homework involving the interpretation and solution of various applications and group work is encouraged; computer labs utilized to study large data sets and to simulate events.
Pre and post surveys, class homework, group work, class discussions, and instructor observation.
4. Work cooperatively with others and contribute to group with ideas and suggestions.
ILOs: Collaborates effectively to achieve course/learning goals; expresses ideas clearly in oral, written and visual work; raises significant and relevant questions.
(COM3, COM2, CT2) / 4. Homework involving the interpretation and solution of various applications and group work is encouraged.
Pre and post surveys, class homework, group work, class discussions, and instructor observation.
5. Apply technology (computer and calculator) efficiently to achieve desired results.
ILOs: Integrates previous and new learning, along with practical skills, to solve problems.
(AK2) / 5. Understanding and application of concepts are tested by written assessment utilizing pencil and paper, computers, and calculators; computer labs utilized to study large data sets and to simulate events.
Pre and post surveys, class homework, group work, class discussions, and instructor observation.
6. Use quantitative data to construct logical explanations for real world situations.
ILOs: Applies knowledge and skills through a global perspective with an awareness of context, personal assumptions, and worldview; expresses ideas clearly in oral, written and visual work.
(AK3, COM2) / 6. Understanding and application of concepts are tested by written assessment utilizing pencil and paper, computers, and calculators; computer labs utilized to study large data sets and to simulate events.
Pre and post surveys, class homework, group work, class discussions, and instructor observation.
Important Dates to Remember:
January 13 Last Day to ADD classes or drop a class without a W
February 26 Last Day to Withdraw with a W or to change to Audit
March 17 Last day of Math Class
January 18 Martin Luther King Day
February 15 President’s Day
Spring Break March 18 – March 27
Evaluation and Scoring:
Three Chapter Tests from Ch.1-4, 5-6.2, 7-10 70%
(Note: You must pass the in-class tests with a cumulative score of 70% to pass the Math 243 course regardless of your scores on homework, labs, worksheets, quizzes, and other take-home assignments.)
Graded Homework
My Stat Lab 15%
Computer Lab Assignments, Projects, Worksheets 15%
Students on borderline between two grades:
There will be two test reviews provided throughout the term. If these are completed carefully,
this effort will be used in your favor.
Grades: Your final grade will be awarded based on your cumulative percentage for the course as follows:
Course Percent (%) Course Grade Quality Points (College Policy)
94 - 100 A 4
90 - 93 A- 4
88 – 89 B+ 3
83 - 87 B 3
80 - 82 B- 3
78 - 79 C+ 2
73 - 77 C 2
70 - 72 C- 2
68 - 69 D+ 1
63 - 67 D 1
60 - 62 D- 1
0 - 59 F 0
If accident, illness, or other crisis interferes with completing the math course this quarter, it is recommended you drop the class by official withdrawal "W" by February 26 or receive a grade of F for non-completion and non-attendance. Withdrawals must be completed by the student on-line or by taking a drop form to Enrollment Services. If 75% or more of the course work has been successfully completed, incompletes might possibly be given for a special case that is evaluated on an individual basis, but not in lieu of a poor grade.
You will be expected to attend regularly, work drill-and-practice homework exercises, complete the computer labs, TESTS and participate in class. Please notify me ahead of time by email me at if you must miss a test. Arrangements must be made with me for making up a chapter test and must be taken within one week of the date scheduled for that test. Late tests (in-class or take-home) may be penalized 20%. March 10, 2015 will be the last day to do a Make-Up Test.
Homework Instructions: If you turn in something without your name or if multiple pages are not stapled together, I will probably misplace your assignment. Do your work in an orderly fashion. Use complete sentences. Show me your thinking on the problems you complete. Mathematics is writing as much as it is calculation. All work must be written in the correct format with equations, charts, graphs or diagrams, the work done using "top-down" methodology, and the answers written in short, complete sentences for full-credit as described in the Mathematics Style Sheet (On a following page).
Graded Applications may be handed in late, but with points deducted. Partial credit will be given for incomplete Graded Homework Applications & Quizzes turned in on time
General Expectations
The Academic Learning Center (Tutoring Center in the G-building) is available for any math students who seek help. The math and science tutors are scheduled with variable availability from 8:30am to 5:30pm on Monday/Tuesday/ Thursday. Wednesday, 8:30 am to 7:30 pm; Friday 8:30 am to 1:00 pm. Seek out the tutors who are providing help at the math level you need. The tutors are there to explain possible problem-solving methods and algebraic principles. The tutors are not expected to do homework, labs or tests for you.
Attendance and Responsibility: You are paying for a class, you are expected to attend, take notes, ask questions in class, and work in small groups, as assigned, participate in activities, and do drill & practice worksheets. If you unable to attend a class, it is your responsibility to obtain all material missed. To preserve a learning environment for all students, the instructor is in charge. If there are complaints or questions about the rules, expectations, grading, or tests, please talk with me outside of class about your concerns.
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Classroom Behavior: All students are expected to follow the usual academic behavior such as no talking
during lectures, no talking on cell phones, being in class on time, active participation in an orderly
manner. Please come to class ON TIME and do not leave early unless you discreetly let the instructor
know the reason. Wandering in or out of the classroom is not acceptable behavior. Common courtesy
and civility prevails as stated in the RCC Student Code of Conduct.
Plagiarism: Cheating, plagiarism, and other forms of academic dishonesty
are unacceptable and are subject to disciplinary action.
Neither you nor I want a doctor, auto mechanic, accountant or
any professional who learned to cheat in college, rather than learned
to do the work correctly!
Regular Study Time: Please budget an hour or more each day to “practice” your math skills. Students are greatly encouraged to form study groups and work together to understand, discuss the material, and check the answers and process on homework assignments. Each student is expected to do their own work on the homework and take-home assignments, showing all steps in a “top-down” format as explained in the Mathematics Style Sheet. You may seek help from the teacher, but do not ask the tutors or classmates to do the work for you.
Americans with Disabilities Act: "Any student who feels that he or she may need an academic accommodation for a disability, such as vision, hearing, orthopedic, learning disabilities, psychological or other medical conditions, should make an appointment with the Support Services Office. (Located in the Wiseman Tutoring Center at the Redwood Campus or Building B at the Riverside Campus.)"
It is the responsibility of a student having a documented disability to inform the instructor of any needs for accommodation by the end of Week 1. Students should expect the instructor to verify the documented disability and the need for accommodation. All students are graded on the same basis in this course. Students needing help with this should contact Disability Support Services at 245-7537 in the G building.
Student Support Services: As situations and needs arise, please visit other student support services on campus such as the Library, the Bookstore, Student ACCESS Center, Disability Support Services, Veteran’s Administration, Counseling and Career Center, Learn & Earn, Federal Work Study, Student Employment Center, and Financial Aid Office. Note videos on My Stat Lab.
Mathematics Style Sheet, Rogue Community College
For Homework, Quizzes, and TESTS:
· Use 8.5 x 11 inch paper. (No spiral paper, please.)
· Use 1/4 inch graph paper when necessary or instructed to do so.
· Use a #2 or HB pencil (soft and dark lead for readability).
· Place a HEADING in the upper right corner of the paper, including your name, math class/time, and the assignment with section, page, and problem numbers.
· If you have multiple sheets of paper, put them in order and staple them together in the upper left corner.
Word problems with multi-step processes:
1. READ and REREAD each word problem carefully.
2. Clearly define your constants and variables using sentences.
For example, write “25 = the length of the rectangle in feet” and “x = the number of gallons of gas”, not just “x = gas”. Sometimes it is more appropriate to use charts, graphs, tables, and pictures or diagrams to define constants and variables.
3. Justify and show the means by which you arrive at the steps and answers using equations, pictures, calculations, geometry, algebra steps, and/or technology.
4. Write your solution in the correct format with equations, charts, graphs, or diagrams as appropriate in “top-down” steps.
5. Write your answer in a short, complete sentence for full-credit.
Be sure to label the charts, graphs, or diagrams with proper headings, titles, and units. Answers also need to include units such as $, feet, meters, etc.
Additional Information
1. Names: I will try to learn your names within the first month. (Please address me as “Moreland” or “Mr. Smith”, your choice.) Feel free to stop me on campus, see me in my office carol or after class. E-mail is a great way to contact me. One-on-one meeting time helps me to learn your name, your interests, and your learning styles more quickly.
2. Electronic Devices
Cell phones, pagers, or other electronic devices are not appropriate in the classroom. Use of these devices in class are disrespectful of everyone in the class. The instructor reserves the right to make exceptions on a limited basis, for specific unique reasons.
3. Smoking
Smoking is not permitted on the premises of Rogue Community College,
except in designated areas.
4. Human Rights’ Statement
All students and employees will be able to work and learn in an environment free of
discrimination and harassment; including sexual harassment. All complaints about
behavior that may violate this Human Rights Policy shall be promptly investigated.
5. Health Issues
RCC encourages you to take care of yourself and to consider the health of others around you. Students are encouraged to stay home if they feel sick, and to contact their instructor immediately to make arrangements for missed work.”
6. Weather closures
For the most up-to-the-minute Rogue Community College closure information, go to
the College’s website or dial 245-7500 or 956-7500. The college has up-to-the-minute direct control over these two sources. The radio and TV stations also get all our updates,
but sometimes they don’t add new information for 20-30 minutes.
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