Course Description:

Topics for instruction include real numbers and expressions, linear equations and inequalities in one and two variables, functions, systems of equations and inequalities, polynomials, factoring, rational expressions and equations, rational exponents, radicals, and quadratic equations.  Methods for solving real-world applications are integrated throughout the course content.  Upon earning a grade of “C” or better, the student becomes eligible to enter first year college-level mathematics courses.

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.

Solve linear equations in one variable using multiple approaches - numeric, graphic, and algebraic.

2.

Graph linear equations in two variables by using ordered pairs, by using the intercepts, and by using the slope and the y-intercept.

3.

Determine whether two linear graphs are coinciding, parallel, or perpendicular by inspecting their corresponding equations.

4.

Write linear equations in two variables when given information about their graphs.

5.

Graph and analyze quadratic functions. (Identify the vertex, x-intercept(s), and y-intercept. Identify the maxima and minima of the function, the x-values where the function is increasing and decreasing, and the domain and range of the function.)

6.

Simplify expressions involving integer exponents by using the rules for exponents.

7.

Perform operations on polynomials.

8.

Factor polynomials completely.

9.

Solve quadratic equations using multiple approaches -  numeric, graphic, and algebraic (including factoring and quadratic formula).

10.

Perform operations on rational expressions.

11.

Simplify radical expressions with integer (positive and negative) radicands.

12.

Solve rational equations.

13.

Solve applications involving the formula for the distance between two points  and the Pythagorean theorem.

14.

Solve real-world applications that are integrated throughout the course content.

Prerequisites and Co-requisites

 Satisfactory ACT or placement test scores or DSPM 0800

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 29^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.

Five 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

Textbook

Intermediate Algebra, Carson/Gillespie/Jordan, 2 ed., 2007, Addison/Wesley, ISBN 0321358368;

A scientific calculator is recommended (TI-30 something). Graphing calculators are NOT allowed.

MathXL  access is required

Assessment and Grading

Testing Procedures

On test day, you will be asked to leave your book bags, purses, and books along the walls of the classroom.  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%

Assignments and Participation

Attendance and Participation:

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.  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/Final Exam

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 Web for Students. 

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 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 Academic Success Center 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.