MAT 151 College Algebra Syllabus
Glendale Community College Spring 2009
Section: 21654 Days: MTWR Time: 11:00-11:50 am Room: MA-124
Instructor: Anne Dudley Office: MA-196 Phone: 623-845-3389
Email: anne.dudley@gcmail.maricopa.edu
Office Hours: MTWRF 10:00-10:50 am on Thursdays @ The Math Solution
Course Description: Analysis and interpretation of the behavior and nature of functions including polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, power, absolute value, and piecewise-defined functions; systems of equations, modeling and solving real world problems. Additional topics may include matrices, combinatorics, sequences and series, and conics. Prerequisites: Grade of "C" or better in MAT120, or MAT121, or MAT122, or equivalent, or satisfactory score on District placement exam.
Course Objectives: To assist students to learn and to demonstrate mastery of the content of College Algebra which can be found at: http://www.maricopa.edu/curriculum/M-Z/046mat151.html
Text: College Algebra, by Holtfrerich & Haughn, Thomson/Brooks Cole Publishing, and MyMathLab access code for online homework.
Attendance: You are expected to attend each class meeting on time. Attendance will be checked each day and four unexcused absences may result in your being withdrawn from the class. If you wish to withdraw, see me during my office hours, or before or after class, and I’ll sign the form. You may not withdraw after May 8, 2009. If you just disappear, you may receive a failing grade.
Homework: Homework is assigned to help teach or reinforce mathematical concepts. After a section is discussed in class you will have an online homework assignment. If you have difficulty doing the homework you should get some help, either from your study group, the math tutors or me. Section homework will be due by midnight the day after we cover that section in class. This will help to keep you from falling behind. If, at the end of the semester, you have 80% or better on your homework, you may opt out of the final exam. You should expect to spend a minimum of two hours outside class preparing for each hour of class time.
Technology: You will need a graphing calculator. I'll be using a TI-84. As we encounter new topics in College Algebra, be sure to explore how to use the graphing calculator to your advantage. Bring your calculator to class everyday. The Math Department does have graphing calculators available for students to rent, but usually rents them all out, so get yours early. You will not be allowed to use TI-89 (or 92) on tests.
Tests: There are seven scheduled exams worth 100 points each. There will be no make-up exams. You may arrange to take an exam early, within 24 hours of the scheduled exam time. The final exam will be cumulative and worth 100 points. It will be given on Wednesday, May 13, 2009 from 11:00 am-12:50 pm, plan to be here.
Grading: Scale:
7 Tests 700 points (82%) A = 90%+ = 765+ points
Final Exam 150 points (18%) B = 80%+ = 680–764 points
850 points C = 70%+ = 595–679 points
D = 60%+ = 510–594 points
Resources: In addition to your textbook, your classmates, and your teacher, GCC offers many resources. The Math Solution has free tutoring, a textbook library, and computer programs to assist your learning. Feel free to explore these to aid you in your mathematical journey. Also, GCC offers MAT 108, Tutored Math, a class of tutoring help and student survival skills.
You may tape the lectures. You are responsible for the information in this syllabus. The information herein is subject to change. I will announce changes in class. You are expected to abide by all college policies as found in the college catalog and student handbook. If you have any issues or concerns or special needs, please make me aware of them as soon as possible. You may want to contact GCC Disability Services @ 623.845.3080, if you have special needs.