Math 24, Elementary Algebra I, 3credits Textbook: Beginning Algebra, 11th edition Lial, Margaret L./Hornsby, John E./McGinnis Terry Pearson-Addison Wesley MyMathLab Code is required. (This is bundled with the textbook found in the bookstore) Additional Materials: (1) A scientific calculator is required (2) A lightweight 3 ring binder for all assignments, handouts, and notes (Portfolio). (3) Graph paper with 3 holes to fit in your 3 ring binder. (4) A small ruler (cm and inches ). (5) A #2 pencil. (6) Folder Paper is required. Prerequisite: Completion of PCM23 with a P, or Math 1 with a grade C or better or recommendation by the COMPASS placement test. If you earn an "A" in Math 24 then you are eligible for Math 100, Math 111, and Math 115. Math 111 is designed for future elementary school teachers. Math 100 and Math 115 are terminal courses. The student is advised to check with a counselor to determine which course is appropriate. Methods of Instruction: Most class sessions are devoted to supervised individual work (on MyMathLab, aka MML) and/or 1-on-1 conferences with the instructor. There are NO in-class lectures. However, attendance of the scheduled class meetings is mandatory and is part of your overall grade. This is a self-paced course, but students are encouraged to at least keep up with the suggested schedule. This means that it s possible to finish the course early and students who do so are given the option of starting Math 25 immediately (only available if Math 24 finished prior to week 14). The assignment of substantial numbers of homework problems for independent practice with self-checking is normal and will be followed by quizzes and tests to check for concept mastery. The instructor is present to clarify any concepts and answer problem specific questions upon request during both class and lab times. Evaluation and Course Grade 1. Student Contract You should read and sign this at the first class. By signing this document, you indicate that you are aware of all the requirements of this class and agree that you intend to do the work required to pass the course. 1
2. Attendance: Attendance and Portfolio scores combine for 5% toward your grade. Students are required to attend two regular class sessions and spend at least one hour (in addition to these) in the computer lab per week (log these on the lab log sheet provided by instructor). Accumulating more than 3 unexcused absences at the end of the semester (or by the time you complete the course) will result in an F for the course. Each missed class or lab hour is equivalent to one unexcused absence (unless you have a valid excuse; check with your instructor). If you come to the class late (more than 10 minutes) or leave class early (more than 10 minutes) three times, that will be counted as one unexcused absence. You may make up one unexcused absence with 2 extra lab hours. 3. Portfolio: Students are required to take their own notes and keep all the materials related to the class (notes, example problems, written problems from homework, etc.) in the portfolio. See portfolio rubric below. In the portfolio, you must include (1) syllabus, (2) lab log, (3) textbook (at least the section that you are currently working on, (3) notes from the video lectures, powerpoint note, e-book, homework, and/or work with lab assistant(s), (4) written process to solve problems on each quiz/module test. If you took a quiz/module test more than once, show the work from all attempts separately. Everything should be labeled and organized in a manner that allows items to be easily found. Portfolio grading Rubric Notes: Since there are various multimedia tools available for you to learn from, this item can vary in detail and composition. Notes should be clearly labeled by section so that it can be easily identified for later reference. Legibility and organization should be such that someone other than you should have no problems following them. Things you should focus on are definitions (written in own words or with added comments for understanding), examples (with explanations for steps that are not clear), and common mistakes to be aware of. You may want to keep your notes in a separate notebook. Quizzes/Module Tests: This serves as a written record of your work that can be used to possibly receive partial credit (at discretion of instructor) for certain problems. Each quiz/module test should be labeled and the work for each problem should be written neatly in an organized manner that is easy to follow (problem does not need to be copied, just work that would be written if taking a written test). Students are required to submit tests before leaving the lab. Worksheets/Handouts/Lab log: Any supplemental worksheets/handouts provided by the instructor should also be filed away in case they need to be used to study for tests/exams. The lab log should be easily accessible 2
so that the lab attendant can sign you in/out without having to search for the sheet. Instructors will check this log periodically, so make sure to keep it with you. Organization: There are a number of methods to organize the items in your portfolio but all of them make use of a binder. Notes/homework can be stored in a separate notebook as long as this is presented with the rest of the portfolio during portfolio checks. If they are written on folder paper, you could keep all the notes (ordered) in one section with another section for quizzes and tests (ordered). Another scheme is to organize material by sections. For example, Mod 6.1 HW, Mod 6.1 Quiz, Mod 6.2 HW, Mod 6.2 Quiz, Mod 6 Test, etc. Just make sure there is a logical order to the way things are filed such that any reader can easily find any item. Portfolio Checks: Your instructor will check your portfolio regularly throughout the course (roughly every 2 weeks) so make sure to update it regularly and bring it to class. Make sure the lab log is included in your portfolio if you normally keep it somewhere other than your portfolio. You will be judged on neatness, organization, and completeness of the items included. If you have sections missing, your instructor might have you add more notes, or redo that section (at discretion of instructor). 4. Homework: Each homework assignment is preceded by a multimedia assignment that includes various multimedia resources for students to learn the material from. These include video lectures, PowerPoint presentations, ebook (electronic copy of the textbook), interactive activities, and more. Students must access at least one of these options before the homework is unlocked. Students need to score at least 95% on the homework from a section to unlock the quiz for that section. All homework assignments are completed in MML. You may redo problems you get wrong until you obtain the minimum score. It is recommended that you try to get 100% for each assignment. You may want to show work on some problems and keep them in your portfolio as it may help you earn more points on portfolio (these may be kept in a separate notebook). 5. Quiz: Students need to score at least 85% on each quiz to move on to the next homework (or module test). Note you need to meet the minimum requirement on the previous homework to qualify for each quiz. The quizzes are in MML and you will have unlimited chances until you meet the minimum competency level of 85%. You need to show the work for each attempt separately to include in your portfolio. Good resources for you to imitate (when you show the work) are examples found in the textbook. These may be done at home. If you score 85% or higher on the first try, then your score will be recorded for that quiz. If you do not obtain the minimum score on the first try, you must retake it until you meet the minimum requirement, but a score of 85% will be recorded for that quiz. 3
6. Module Test: You need to score 75% or higher on each module test to move on to the next module (Note you need to meet the minimum requirement on the previous quiz to qualify for each module test). The tests are in MML and you will have unlimited chances until you meet the minimum competency level of 75%. Module tests are password protected so they must be done in the lab and are closed notes/book. Students will clear their workspace except for blank folder paper, writing tool (pencil/pen, eraser), calculator, and straight edge (for graphing). You need to show the work for each attempt separately to include in your portfolio. If you score 75% or higher on the first attempt, then your score will be recorded for that module test. You may take the module test again to improve the performance but the score won't change. If you do not obtain the minimum score on the first try, you must retake it until you meet the minimum requirement, but a score of 75% will be recorded for that module test. 7. Final Exam: You need to score at least 60% on a cumulative final exam to pass the course. If you score 60% or better on the first try, your score is recorded and you will pass the course. The final exam is in MML and is password protected so it must be taken in the lab. You can only take the final exam after completing all the modules and it is closed notes/book. You will input your answers on MML (the final is multiple choice), but you must also show your work for each problem on folder paper and submit it to your instructor to receive full credit. Students will clear their workspace except for the exam, blank folder paper, writing tool (pencil/pen, eraser), calculator, and straight edge (for graphing). If you score 60% or higher on the first attempt, then your score will be recorded for that module test (you cannot retake the final to better your score if you pass on the first attempt). If you do not obtain the minimum score on the first try, you may retake it to meet the minimum requirement (only available if you take it prior to finals week, otherwise you will need to come back at the start of the next semester to retake it) and you will receive a score of 60%. You may take the final exam early. However, if you take it during the final exam week, you need to come to the lab at the designated time (via final exam schedule) to take the final exam. Final exam schedule can be found at http://kcc.hawaii.edu/object/fe_schedule.html. 8. Grading/Weight Attendance/Portfolio 5% Homework 5% Quiz 5% Module Test 60% Final Exam 25% Your average Your Grade 90%-100% A 80%-89% B 70%-79% P 4
Less than 70% Students who stopped attending class without withdrawing NP (3 or less unexcused absences) F If you earn a NP grade for the course and repeat Math 24 the following semester, you may continue to work from where you left off (i.e. you don t have to start from the beginning). Your Responsibilities 1. Please be considerate of your fellow classmates by turning off (or using silent mode) your pagers, and/or cellular phones. I reserve the option of taking 1% off your overall grade for every ring. 2. You may listen to music from your own device and headset. However, you need to keep volume low enough so that it is not a disruption to other students. 3. Behavior that disrupts the positive educational experience for other students will not be tolerated. You are encouraged to read the KCC General Catalogue concerning Academic Dishonesty and Student Conduct under student regulations. 4. Group discussion is encouraged (except on tests/exams). However, please try your best effort to keep the noise level minimum as other students are working in the lab as well. 5. Do all homework as it is assigned. Expect to spend at least six to eight hours per week outside of class for this course. If you feel that you do not have the time to put in extra effort you should not expect to succeed in this course. Recommended schedule Module Finish by Sections from text Module 1 Week 2 1.4, 1.1, 1.2 Module 2 Week 3 1.3, 1.5, 1.6 Module 3 Week 4 1.7, 1.8 Module 4 Week 5 2.1, 2.2, 2.3 Module 5 Week 7 2.4, 2.5, 2.6 Module 6 Week 8 3.1, 3.2 Module 7 Week 9 3.3, 3.4 Module 8 Week 11 2.8, 3.5, 4.5 Module 9 Week 13 4.1, 4.2, 4.3 Module 10 Week 15 2.7, 4.4 Final Exam Week 15-16 Module 1 to Module 10 You must take the final exam no later than the designated final exam date/time. Specific Competencies: Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:... Translate word phrases into algebraic expressions. 5
... Use the order of operations to find the value of algebraic expressions.... Identify whole numbers, integers, rational numbers, irrational numbers and real numbers.... Find the absolute value, additive inverse and multiplicative inverse of a real number.... Perform the basic operations (add, subtract, multiply and divide) with signed rational numbers.... Identify the following properties: Commutative, associative, identity, inverse and distributive.... Identify terms, like terms, and numerical coefficients in a polynomial.... Solve linear equations and inequalities in one variable....solve a formula for a specified variable.... Write and solve ratios and proportions including those from word problems.... Plot an ordered pair and state the quadrant in which it lies.... Graph linear equations and inequalities by point plotting, the intercept method, and the slope and y-intercept method.... Write the equation of a line given two points or the slope and y-intercept or the slope and a point on the line.... Solve linear systems of equations or inequalities in two variables by algebraic and graphic methods.... Use linear systems to solve word problems. Course Objectives: Beginning algebra should help students to develop a mastery of the basic concepts and skills of elementary algebra and an understanding of the structure of the real number system. It is hoped that each student will develop proficiency in performing operations rapidly, accurately, and efficiently, and in applying the principles of mathematics to solve problems. Math 24 is the first semester of a sequence of algebra courses designed to introduce to students the basic algebra skills required in subsequent course work in mathematics, science and related fields. Math 24 is the prerequisite to Math 25. Supplementary Materials The instructor will clearly indicate when the material is optional. For required worksheets: the concepts presented will be included on unit tests. Optional learning materials are available at the Kahikoluamea Center (KC) (Iliahi 231) and in the library Course Textbook & Solutions Manual Computer Tutorial Programs. Video Tapes Multiple methods of instruction are available in MyMathLab (MML) as your instructor will demonstrate on the first day of class. Kahikoluamea Counselors: Regina Ewing rewing@hawaii.edu 734-9506 'Iliahi 228 Sharoh Moore sharoh@hawaii.edu 734-9339 'Iliahi 230 Sheldon Tawata sheldont@hawaii.edu 734-9842 'Iliahi 231 #10 6
Additional Assistance Video lectures, Powerpoint presentations, and interactive activities are available in MyMathLab for each module. If more assistance is needed, the instructor (or lab attendant) is there to help upon request. There is also help available at the Kahikoluamea Center (Iliahi 231). There is tutoring available as well as worksheets, videos, and computer programs. Other student in Math 24 (both in your class and in other sections) can also be a resource. It is possible to arrange for group meetings in the KC, or in the library. Extended time in a distraction-free environment will be provided based on recommendations of DSSO (Disability Support Services Office). If you have a disability, and have not voluntarily disclosed the nature of your disability, and the support you need, you are invited to contact the Special Student Services Office at Ilima 103 (734-9552) for assistance. Drop/Erase/Withdrawal The drop/erase deadline is Sept. 12, 2011 The withdrawal deadline is Oct. 25. 2011 Please monitor your progress carefully. I do not make exceptions for these deadlines. I cannot make decisions about dropping or withdrawing for you. It is your decision, but I'm happy to help you during my office hours if you want to put in the extra effort necessary to improve your skills. hawaii.edu email use: The electronic communications policy adopted in December 2005 establishes the University of Hawai'i Internet service as an official medium for communication among students, faculty, and staff. Every member of the system has a hawaii.edu address, and the associated username and password provide access to essential Web announcements and email. You are hereby informed of the need to regularly log in to UH email and Web services for announcements and personal mail. Failing to do so will mean missing critical information from academic and program advisors, instructors, registration and business office staff, classmates, student organizations, and others. Tips for Success in Mathematics 1. Attend every class, especially the first week since demonstrations in the use of MML will be done then. Use the entire class to work on your own or seek help from your instructor. 2. Take complete notes in class regardless of which medium you use for the lectures. There is far less total class time in a college course than in high school, although the same amount of material or more is covered. Although this is a self-paced course, retention of material is still paramount to success in the course. 3. Do all the homework as it is assigned. You learn mathematics by doing mathematics, and it must be done on a regular basis, and not be allowed to pile up. Try to finish most homework while still on campus. If you have difficulties, you can go ask for help from the instructor or from a tutor. 7
This help is not available if you have already gone home so try to ask questions when help is available. 4. Go to the instructor when difficulties are first encountered. Do not wait until the day before the final exam to ask for help. Instructors are here to help you learn, and if difficulties are allowed to go uncorrected, they can snowball into insurmountable obstacles. 5. Keep a log of common errors made, questions that arise, and big ideas learned. This can be a big help when studying for an exam, or for preparing for the next day's class. 6. Summarize after each major assignment. Do not think that merely because your homework is finished you are through studying. Ask yourself what you have learned from the assignment, and what ideas were involved. 7. Go to workshops such as the Get Better Grades workshops and any others which are offered, whenever possible. Discuss what you learned from these workshops with your instructor if you are unsure of how they apply to mathematics classes. Many resources are made available to you to help you succeed, but they cannot be effective for you if you do not take advantage of them. 8. Review regularly. Do not wait for the day before (or the day of) an exam. You should be ready every day to take an exam on all the material covered prior to that day. 9. Form support/study groups. You will not only learn from each other, but you will learn by teaching each other, and will also get help with any feelings of anxiety you may have by having a group to share them with. 10. Make a commitment to success in the class. Approach the class with a positive attitude. You are taking the class because you want to learn, not just because it is a requirement. You are planning to be successful in the class rather than just waiting to see how it goes and maybe withdrawing. 11. Put in extra time to master each module. You get what you put into the course. Completing just the minimum requirements will probably not yield the highest grade possible. Extra practice on the various sections within a module (or over prior modules for the midterm and final) will help you remember how things are done and might lead to better overall understanding in the long run. Kapiolani Community College is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Institution 8