MATH 2703

 

Course Name:  Foundations of Number Systems                    Office:  311 Boyd Bldg.

 

Instructor:  Dr. Nydia Powell                          Office Hours:  MTWR 12:30-3:00

 

E-mail:  npowell@westga.edu                          Telephone:  770-836-6489

 

Course Objectives:  After completion of the course, the student will demonstrate:

 

1.  an understanding of the standard vocabulary and notation of elementary mathematics;

2.  an understanding of the development of number systems from the whole numbers to integers, then rational and reals;

3.  an understanding of operations, algorithms, place value, elementary number theory;

4.  an ability to apply concepts of fractions, decimals, percents, ratio, and proportion in problem-solving situations;

5.  an appreciation for mathematics from an historical prospective; and

6.  a better understanding of the uses of a variety of manipulatives and other material for the 4-8 level.

 

Text:  A Problem Solving Approach to Mathematics for Elementary School Teachers Seventh Edition, by Billstein, Libeskind, and Lott, Addison Wesley, 2001

 

Evaluation:     The course grade will be determined from tests, a project, and the final examination.  There will be four tests given during the semester.  All tests and the project will count 100 points each for a total of 600 possible points.

                       

Grading Policy:  A (540-600 pts), B (480-539 pts), C (420-479 pts), D (360-419 pts), F (0-359 pts)

 

Attendance Policy:  Students are expected to attend all classes.  Students are responsible for all assignments and material covered during class regardless of attendance.  This term a student may withdraw with a grade of W through October 10, regardless of grades, absences, etc.  This deadline has been established by the University.  After this deadline, if a student has accumulated more than five absences throughout the semester, he/she will normally receive a grade of WF.  (A grade of WF counts as an F.)  The five absences should be saved for sickness and other emergencies.  Late arrivals and early exits count one-half of an absence.  Class will begin and end on time. 

If a student is absent for a test and has official documentation, then the student will be expected to complete a make-up exam within one week of the original test date.  Lack of preparation is NOT an acceptable excuse!!!  Make-up arrangements will be done according to instructor’s discretion.  If the instructor grants a make-up exam, do not expect the make-up exam to be the same test the class took; it could very well be more difficult.  Students who maintain a perfect attendance record (i.e. no excused or unexcused absences) will have 5 points added to their Total Points at the end of the semester. 

 

Suggested Problems:  Problems will be suggested at the end of each session.  It is strongly recommended that the student stay current with the suggested problems, for they will facilitate the understanding of the lessons being presented in the text.  If you have questions concerning the suggested problems, you should see the instructor during office hours or go to the math lab.  Class time is not a problem-solving session. 

 

Conferences:  Conferences can be beneficial and are encouraged.  All conferences should occur during the instructor’s office hours, whenever possible.  If these hours conflict with a student’s schedule, then appointments should be made.  The conference time is not to be used for duplication of lectures that were missed; it is the student’s responsibility to obtain lecture notes before consulting with the instructor.  The instructor is very concerned about the students’ achievement and well-being and encourages anyone having difficulties with the course to come by the office for extra help.

 

Individual Accommodations:  Students requiring individual educational accommodations should discuss their needs with the instructor within the first week of class.

 

Conduct and Academic Integrity:  It is expected that students be familiar with the Student Conduct Code, Disciplinary Procedures, and Disciplinary Sanctions in the Student Handbook.  Cheating and/or any conduct that disturbs or disrupts the classroom, the instructor, or the students WILL NOT be tolerated!!  Any evidence that may show otherwise will be reported; appropriate actions will be taken; and consequences will result.  If you are caught cheating on the project, tests, or final exam, you will receive an F for the course.

 

Pagers and Cell Phones:  Students are not allowed to carry pagers and cell phones in the classroom unless they are set to an inaudible setting.