Math 1111 Syllabus

 

Course Description

This course is a functional approach to algebra that incorporates the use of technology. Emphasis will be placed on the study of functions, and their graphs, inequalities, and linear, quadratic, piece-wise defined, polynomial, exponential and logarithmic functions. Appropriate applications will be included.

Learning Outcomes

Students should be able to demonstrate:

  1. An understanding of the equations of circles and lines
  2. An understanding of functions and how to graph functions
  3. An understanding of operations on functions including function composition
  4. An understanding of polynomial graphs, including intercepts
  5. An understanding of how to find the zeros of a polynomial and how to factor polynomials
  6. An understanding of inverse functions and how to find them graphically and algebraically
  7. An understanding of the properties of exponential and logarithmic equations
  8. An understanding of how to solve exponential and logarithmic equations
  9. An understanding of how to solve a system of equations

Technology Policy

Cell phones must be off during class. No computers should be open during class time. Calculators are not required, but will be needed to do certain computations. I suggest a TI-83, 84, or 84 Plus. I will offer in-class instruction as needed.

Grading Policy

You must purchase the access code for MyMathLab in order to do the online Homework segment that will make up 25% of each major test. You have two options:
  1. Buy the access code online at coursecompass.com and the text is included online as an eBook.
  2. Buy a new text that includes the access code in the cover. Text: College Algebra by Lial, Hornsby and Schneider (Addison/Wesley). NOTE: Students can either use the 10th edition available from the publisher OR the West Georgia edition available from the bookstore.

There will be 4 major tests and a final exam. The major tests are worth 100 points each and will make up 75% of your grade. The final exam will be worth 100 points and will result in 25% of your final grade. The final exam is comprehensive. Grades are assigned on a 10% point scale format:

  • 90% < A < 100%
  • 80% < B < 89%
  • 70% < C < 79%
  • 69% < D < 60%
  • 59% < F

Example for calculating final average:


Suppose you score on the 4 tests the following grades:
T#1 = 70%; T#2 = 85%; T#3 = 65%; T#4 = 90%.
On your final you score 80%. Your final average for the course will be computed as follows:
.75[(70 + 85 +65 + 90)/4] + .25(80)

I do reserve the right to offer extra credit on the tests and the final exam at my discretion.

***NO MAKE-UP TEST WILL BE GIVEN AFTER THE SCHEDULED DAY.

  • In the case of hospitalization or death of a close family member your grade for that test will come from the corresponding questions on the Final Exam.
  • If you know ahead of time due to sports or significant school activity you can take your tests a class day early
  • Proof will be required.

Final Exam

The Final Exam for all MATH 1111 sections will be given on Saturday December 4, from Noon until 2:00 PM in a location TBA. The final exam will account for 25% of the course average. Graphing calculators equivalent to the TI 83, 84, 85, and 86 will be allowed on the exam, as will scientific calculators. The TI-89 and other equivalent calculators will not be allowed.