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Course Description:

Topics for instruction include integers, algebraic operations, linear equations, inequalities, functions, graphing techniques, and systems of equations. Methods for solving real-world applications are integrated throughout the course content. Upon earning a grade of “C” or better, the student advances to Intermediate Algebra, DSPM0850. (Prerequisite: DSPM0700 or entry assessment.)

Course Objectives:
These objectives will be evaluated by the student's performance on tests and a comprehensive final examination after classroom explanation and examples. On the successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:
1.	Simplify first-degree algebraic expressions.
2.	Create a table of values and a graph for given relations.
3.	Identify a function given the graph of a relation including the concepts of domain and range.
4.	Analyze the graph of linear functions identifying the x-intercept, y-intercept, and slope.
5.	Solve linear equations in one variable using multiple approaches - numeric, graphic, and algebraic.
6.	Solve linear absolute-value equations in one variable using multiple approaches.
7.	Graph linear equations in two variables by using ordered pairs, by using the intercepts, and by using the slope and the y-intercept.
8.	Determine whether two linear graphs are coinciding, parallel, or perpendicular by inspecting their corresponding equations.
9.	Write linear equations in two variables when given information about their graphs.
10.	Solve systems of linear equations graphically and algebraically (by using substitution and by using elimination).
11.	Solve linear inequalities in one variable.
12.	Graph linear inequalities in two variables.
13.	Solve systems of two linear inequalities in two variables graphically.
14.	Solve formulas and literal equations for a specified variable.
15.	Solve geometric applications.
16.	Solve real-world applications that are integrated throughout the course content.
17.	Add, subtract, multiply, and divide polynomials
18.	Factor polynomials of the form x²+bx+c.
19.	Factor polynomials by pulling out the Greatest Common Factor.
20.	Simplify expressions involving integer exponents by using the rules for exponents.
Prerequisites and Co-requisites
Satisfactory ACT or placement test scores or DSPM 0700

Student Responsibilities and Conduct
1.	Each student is expected to attend class and to be on time for each class meeting. Entering or leaving a class during class time is inconsiderate to the instructor and other class members please avoid any unnecessary disturbances. All pagers and cell phones should be silenced during class. Attendance will be checked at the beginning of class via the Student Response System (clickers).
2.	No tobacco products are allowed in the classroom.
3.	Each student is expected to read the textbook and complete all homework assignments
4	A student needing additional help should talk to the instructor to set up an appointment for help. Do not allow yourself to get behind. A student who needs additional help can:
	a.	study the solutions manual located at each site in the Academic Support Center (ASC) or Library (LRC)
	b.	view the videos located at each site in the ASC or LRC or online on www.MathXL.com
	c.	Seek tutorial support in the ASC
5.	As a general rule, *you will not be allowed to drop this course* or any other Developmental Studies course. Before dropping, seek the advice of your Financial Aid Counselor, your instructor and/or the Director of the Developmental Studies Program. A student not completing the course will receive a grade of "F" if official withdrawal procedures are not followed. Please see the CoSCC Catalog for instructions. The last date to withdraw without a failing mark is March 27^th.
6.	If an error in grading is suspected, please talk to the instructor at the end of the class period. Mistakes can occur and should be brought to the instructor's attention. Students have the responsibility of keeping all graded material that is returned, in case there is a question.
7.	Cheating and other forms of academic dishonesty are prohibited. The instructor has the authority to assign a zero for the exercise or examination or to assign an "F" in the course if there is academic misconduct. Please see the CoSCC Catalog.
8.	Six announced tests will be given during the semester. If you know in advance of an absence on test day (especially on a school-related trip), please contact the instructor. If you have extenuating circumstances on the day of a test and are unable to take the test, it is your responsibility to contact the instructor prior to the test. I will allow a make-up only if it can be scheduled *BEFORE* tests are returned to the class. Otherwise, there are NO MAKE-UPS!


Textbooks, Supplementary Materials, Hardware and Software Requirements
Textbooks
Elementary Algebra, Carson/Gillespie/Jordan, 2 ed., 2007, Addison/Wesley, ISBN 0321440323; A scientific calculator is recommended. (TI-30 something); graphing calculator are NOT allowed. MATHXL access is required.

Assessment and Grading
Testing Procedures
On test day, you should only have your pencils, erasers, and calculator at your seat. If possible, you may also be asked to leave an empty seat between you and your neighbor.
Grading Procedure				Grading Scale
The grades in this class will have these components:
ë 2% Attendance				ë A 90 – 100%
ë 13% Homework/Quizzes				ë B 80 – 89%
ë 60% Tests				ë C 70 – 79%
ë 25% Final Exam				ë PR/F 0 – 69%
A student who earns a PR must retake the course the next semester he is enrolled. The criteria for a PR (Progress) is:
1.			You must complete and score at least 50% on ALL homework assignments.
2.			You must have a at least a 50% class average and have attended regularly.
3.			You cannot have previously received a PR in this course.

Assignments and Participation
Attendance:
Each student will receive 5 points for each day that you are in class on time, 3 points if you are reasonably tardy (i.e. 10 minutes).
(2% of 100 possible points)
Homework/Quizzes:
For each section covered in class, there are assigned homework problems. Homework online is mandatory. Your homework will be checked through www.MathXL.com. A student must score at least 70% on all homework to be credited. All homework is due BEFORE your test. Occasionally, you may have a quiz. The quiz will be announced and will be through MathXL. MathXL quizzes may be attempted no more than twice.
(13% of 100 possible points)
Tests
During the semester there will be 6 announced tests and a comprehensive final exam. Each test is worth 100 points and the final exam is worth 200 points. The Tests are 60% and the Final Exam 25% of your grade. There are no makeup tests. If you miss a test you will be given a zero. Your final exam score will replace your lowest test score, unless your lowest test score is higher than your final exam score. The final exam score can only replace one test. However, no test grade will replace your final exam grade.
(85% 0f 100 possible points)
Other Information

Each student is responsible for his/her own conduct. Students are expected to be respectful of the instructor and classmates at all times.

The taking of all announced tests and the final examination is required to pass the course.

Grades are not mailed to students. You must access grades through MyChargerNet (www.Columbiastate.edu) five (5) working days after grades are required in Admissions. Students needing official copies of grades must request it in writing from the Office of Admissions and Records. Call the transcript information line at (931) 540-2550 for detailed instructions. Students may print a copy of their grades from Self Service.

In the event of an emergency, please follow the instructions of the instructor.

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, students are encouraged to register with Counseling/Disability Services (931-540-2572) for possible assistance with accommodations. It is the student’s responsibility to voluntarily and confidentially provide appropriate documentation regarding the nature and extent of a disability. Students requesting special accommodations are (strongly) encouraged to contact Counseling/Disability Services at the beginning of the semester.

The Academic Success Center (ASC) offers tutoring *free of charge* for all students enrolled at Columbia State Community College. Assistance is available for all writing assignments, for most math courses, and some science courses, as well as for specific courses as the need arises. Tutors are available at all five campuses, and online tutoring using, Smarthinking.com, is offered as well. The ASC is located on the main campus in Warf 237 and the Franklin campus next to the library. For more information or to schedule appointments, call 931-540-1302 at the main campus and 615-790-5671 at the Franklin campus. Walk-in visits are welcome, but to ensure prompt service, *students should schedule an appointment.* Please visit our web page www.academicsupport.columbiastate.edu for any information regarding staff, hours, tutoring, etc.