MATH 095 Intermediate Algebra Page 1

MATH 095 Intermediate Algebra – page 1

MATH 095 – Intermediate Algebra

FALL 2009

5 Credits

Course Description: / This course builds on the knowledge developed in MATH 085. The primary content of the course is algebra, but topics in geometry, right triangle trigonometry, probability, and number theory are also included. Learners will continue to refine study skills and habits, team skills, logic, and the ability to express math visually, symbolically, and in written forms while working with both abstract and real world applications. NOTE: Credits for this course are not transferable, nor do they apply to any college degree or certificate.
Required Materials: / Angel, Allen R.Elementaryand Intermediate Algebra for College Students, Third Edition. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson Education, Inc., 2008.
Scientific Calculator – cell phone calculators will not be allowed!
(Optional: Graphing Calculator – recommendation is a TI-84)
Class Meetings: / Tuesday andThursday 8:45am-10:50am CC2081
Prior Learning: / Completion of MATH 085 with a grade of 2.0 or higher or placement by testing in
MATH 095; and completion of ESL 060 or EFUND 040 or placement into ENGL080 or above.
Course Outcomes: /

Solve systems of equations graphically and algebraically, and in real-world applications
Manipulate, solve, graph, and apply quadratic, radical, rational, exponential, an logarithmic expressions, equations, and functions
Demonstrate competency of algebraic rules of exponents and polynomials
Develop geometric and algebraic vocabulary both in words and symbols
Connect word problem/applications to mathematical expression of them as a means of arriving at solutions
Translate between English expression, graphic and mathematical representations of ideas

Expectations: / Mathematics is a study of patterns and solving techniques. I will demonstrate several tools and methods for problem solving in class through the use of examples, discussion, and questions. You will practice using these techniques and possibly a few other techniques found in the textbook during group activities and homework. Since we learn better by actively working through problems, expect to spend 2-3 hours outside of class for each credit-hour spent in class.
Course Outcomes:

Learn Actively

/ Learning is a personal, interactive process that results in greater expertise and a more comprehensive understanding of the world.

Perform algebraic manipulations at a level that allows success in higher-level math classes
Investigate functions represented graphically, algebraically, numerically, geometrically and verbally in real world settings
Express and approach problem solving using and integrating various threads of mathematics

Think Critically, Creatively and Reflectively / Reason and imagination are fundamental to problem solving and critical examination of ideas.

Demonstrate proficiency in introductory algebra tools in the analysis of appropriate problems
Develop competency in rational, radical, exponential, logarithmic expressions, equations and functions, and systems of equations
Choose appropriate functions to express relations between independent and dependent variables, model authentic (real-world) problems, and analyze the reliability and validity of these relations and models
Demonstrate use of rule-based thinking and development of logical approaches toproblem solving
Reflect on process as well as solution, integrating thinking from various strands of math

Communicate with Clarity and Originality / The ability to exchange ideas and information is essential to personal growth, productive work, and societal vitality.

Listen, speak and write using mathematical vocabulary, notation, and graphical expression
Compare, convert and create in words, graphs and formulas
Refine communication with others about incorrect answers to be supportive ofpersons without compromising accuracy of answers

Interact in Diverse and Complex Environments / Successful negotiation through our increasingly complex, interdependent and global society requires knowledge and awareness of self and others, as well as enhanced interaction skills.

Engage in work, study, and conversation on the topics of algebra with colleagues
Practice teamwork and collaborative learning skills in problem-solving situations
Respect individual ways of arriving at answers

Grading: / % / GPA / % / GPA / % / GPA / % / GPA
95-100 / 4.0/ A / 89 / 3.4/ B+ / 79 / 2.4/ C+ / 68-69 / 1.4/ D+
94 / 3.9/ A / 88 / 3.3/ B+ / 78 / 2.3/ C+ / 67 / 1.3/ D+
93 / 3.8/ A- / 87 / 3.2/ B+ / 77 / 2.2/ C+ / 66 / 1.2/ D+
92 / 3.7/ A- / 86 / 3.1/ B / 76 / 2.1/ C / 64-65 / 1.1/ D
91 / 3.6/ A- / 85 / 3.0/ B / 75 / 2.0/ C / 63 / 1.0/ D
90 / 3.5/ A- / 84 / 2.9/ B / 74 / 1.9/ C / 62 / 0.9/ D
83 / 2.8/ B- / 73 / 1.8/ C- / 61 / 0.8/ D-
82 / 2.7/ B- / 72 / 1.7/ C- / 60 / 0.7/ D-
81 / 2.6/ B- / 71 / 1.6/ C- / 0-59 / 0.0/ F
80 / 2.5/ B- / 70 / 1.5/ C-

Responsibilities:

Instructor

/ Student

Show respect for the thoughts, ideas and contributions of others.

Show respect for the thoughts, ideas and contributions of others.

Come to class prepared.

Come to class prepared.

Create opportunities for active learning.

Participate in class discussion and group activities.

Solicit and act on feedback from students.

Provide constructive feedback to instructor on what is and what is not working in the class.

Provide feedback on student work in a timely manner.

Ask questions.

Be available for students.

Help each other learn.

Disability Support Services: / If you have or suspect you have a disability and need an accommodation please contact the front office in Kodiak Corner at 352-8383 to schedule an appointment with the Disability Support Services. Services and Accommodations through DSS are not retroactive.
Assessments: / Homework Assignments: / 80 points
In-Class Team Projects: / 50 points
Quizzes: / 70 points
Exams: / 300 points
Point totals are subject to change at the instructor’s discretion.
Practice Sets/
Homework: / Practice sets/homework will be assigned on a daily basis and completed on WAMAP. See below regarding instructions for accessing the WAMAP site and how to register for the class. You will be given multiple attempts per problem. For each problem, it is important to read the instructions, particularly regarding formatting of answers. Often times, there is a preview button. It is good practice to use the preview button when available. This will check formatting and inform the user of any syntax errors; it does not inform the user if the answer is correct. Due dates/times for each practice set/homework are posted in WAMAP. You will have several days to compete each practice set/homework. Late practice sets/homework will not be credited.
The practice sets/homework for each exam will be worth a total of 20 points toward your final grade. For example, say you earned an average of 86% on the practice sets/homework for chapters 9 and 10. Then, you have earned 17 points (20*0.86) toward your final grade.
In-Class Team Projects: / There will be in-class discussions and group work. Examples include working problems, presenting problems, and group worksheets. These points cannot be made up for any reason. Daily attendance is recommended.
Quizzes: / There will be eight quizzes at 10 points each. NO make-up quizzes will be given. You will drop your lowest quiz score. This gives a total of 70 points.

Exams:

/ There will be four exams. NO make-up exams will be given. You will drop your lowest exam score. This gives a total of 300 points for exams.
WAMAP: / We will be using the WAMAP site ( in this class. You will need to register as a new student unless you have already registered into WAMAP from a previous class. You will be asked to submit a user name and a password. These are unique to you and do not need to follow any particular format. Be sure to provide a valid e-mail address so that I will have a class e-mail list. After you have registered, you need to login with your username and password. Then, enroll in our class. The course ID is 33 and the enrollment key is cascadia, typed in lower case as it appears here.
Math & WritingCenter: / The Math and WritingCenter may be found in room CC2 080. Free tutoring is available when a mathematics tutor is present. The hours of operation are posted on the door.

Extra Credit:

/ There will be no extra credit available in this class.
Electronic Devices: / All electronic devices (i.e. MP3 players, cell phones, etc.) must be turned off and put away during class.
Academic Honesty: / See the current catalog for the school’s policy on Academic Honesty. There is zero tolerance for violations. Violations include, but are not limited to, copying homework, quiz and/or exam problems, and placing your name on a group project when you did not actively participate. If there has been a violation, penalties can range from 0 on the assignment(s) to an automatic 0.0 in the class.
Academic Standards: / A complete list of Cascadia Community College’s Academic Standards is available online at
Weather
Advisory: / In case of inclement weather, check the website or or call the college information line at (425) 352-8000. If the college is open and you can not make it, you are still expected to keep up with the class.
Counseling: / If you have a personal problem or stress that is affecting your schoolwork and would like to talk to someone, please contact the Cascadia counselor. Counseling at Cascadia Community College is confidential, professional, and free. Visit the Kodiak Corner front desk or call (425) 352-8860 for an appointment.
School Closure and Pandemic Plan: / In the case of student, faculty, and/or campus prolonged closure, our class will continue using WAMAP. Be sure to check our class site frequently.
This syllabus is subject to change at the instructor’s discretion.

Faculty: Sharon Saxton

Office #: CC1-173 Telephone: 425.352.8236 E-mail:

Office Hours: M - Th 11:00a-12:00p or by Appointment

My Website: WAMAP: