Mathematics/Computer Science

Mat 1070 College Algebra

Instructor: Mrs. Linda M. HaferSemester: Fall '08
Class Location: 1237 Oxendine Science BuildingTime: Section 002: 9:00-9:50; Section 003: 11:30 - 12:20; Section 004: 1:30 - 2:20 MWF

Description
A study of the real and complex number systems, algebraic expressions and equations, polynomial and rational functions and their graphs, inequalities and their graphs, exponential and logarithmic functions and their graphs, systems of equations, and conic sections. This course is intended to be a preparation for calculus (MAT 2150 and MAT 2210.)

Goals
*Encourage student-faculty contact
*Encourage cooperation among students
*Encourage active learning
*Give prompt feedback
*Emphasize time on task
*Communicate high expectations
*Respect diverse talents and ways of learning

Objectives
Each student will:
*Understand the fundamental properties of real numbers
*Learn to use common notations of algebra
*Learn methods and strategies for solving inequalities and linear and quadratic equations
*Learn to simplify and graph polynomial, exponential, and logarithmic functions
*Learn to apply algebra to various problems in other fields of study such as science and business

General Education Objectives
*Foster the ability to analyze and weigh evidence
*Exercise quantitative and scientific skills
*Make informed decisions
*Write and speak clearly
*Think critically and creatively
*Apply mathematical principles, concepts, and skills to meet personal and career demands
*Demonstrate knowledge of the purpose, methods, and principles of scientific inquiry
*Better understand self and environment through knowledge of scientific principles and concepts
*Demonstrate knowledge of the effects of technology upon the physical and human environment

Course Materials
Textbook(s)
College Algebra, 3rd edition
by Beecher, Penna, Bittinger
Other
Homework Notebook
Pencils
Blue or black (not red) fine point marker for graphing

Course Resource Links
Assignments
InterAct Math Tutorial Web Site

Grading Policy
The lowest 100-point chapter test score will be dropped. A practice of giving make-up tests is not made. If a student knows that he or she will be absent the day of a test, he or she may take the test before the given day. If a make-up test is given, it will be much harder than the original test and must be made up before the following chapter test is given. No make-up tests will be given after the last class day. Each student is only allowed one make up test per course per semester. If every student in the class is present the day of the test, each student will receive 2 bonus points on the given test.

The lowest 10-point random pop quiz score will be dropped. No pop quiz may be made up.

A 100-point Comprehensive Final Exam will be given Sectopm 002: Wednesday, December 10, 8:00 - 10:30; Section 003: Friday, December 12, 8:00-10:30; Section 004: Friday, December 12, 10:45-1:15.

The last day to drop this class with a "W" grade is Monday, October 20.

A Blackboard website will be utilized in this class.

Grade Components
 Name 
 Weight 
  Subject
Test 1
100 points
 Chapter R
Test 2
100 points
 Chapter 1
Test 3
100 points
 Chapter 2
Test 4
100 points
 Chapter 3
Test 5
100 points
 Chapter 4
Test 6
100 points *
 Chapters 5, 6
Pop Quizzes
100 points *
 random pop quizzes that cannot be made up for any reason
Final Exam
100 points
 comprehensive

Final Grades
 A: 90-100  B+: 88  C+: 78  D+: 68  F: 0-54  
 A-: 89  B: 80-87  C: 70-77  D: 60-67      
     B-: 79  C-: 69  D-: 55-59      

Attendance Policy
Each student should arrive on time and prepared for class.
Do not attend class if you are going to sleep through any part of it.

Student Conduct & Honor Code
The UNCP Academic Honor Code will be strictly observed in this class.

Any behaviors that disrupt the teaching and/or educational process will not be tolerated. If a student displays such behavior, the student will be asked to leave the classroom for the remaining class period. If the disruptive behavior continues, the Office for Academic Affairs will be asked to administratively withdraw the student from the class.

Disruptive behavior is defined as repeated, continuous, and/or other multiple student behaviors that hamper the ability of instructors to teach and students to learn. Examples include, but are not limited to:
* Eating in class
* Failing to respect the rights of other students
* Talking when the instructor is speaking
* Constant questions or interruptions
* Overt inattentiveness
* Creating excessive noise
* Entering class late or leaving early
* Use of pagers or cell phones in the classroom
**There will be absolutely no electronic communication devices allowed in the classroom to include texting during class - sending or receiving

Extreme examples include, but are not limited to:
* Use of profanity or pejorative language
* Intoxication
* Verbal abuse
* Harassment
* Threats to harm oneself or others
* Physical violence

Conditions attributed to physical or psychological disabilities are not considered a legitimate excuse for disruptive behavior.

Office Location and Phone Number
1228 Oxendine Science Building
910-521-6256

Office Hours
10:30 - 11:30, 1:00-1:30, 2:30 - 3:00 MF; 2:30 - 3:30 W; by appointment TR

Email Address
linda.hafer@uncp.edu

Other Information
SUPPLEMENTAL INSTRUCTION (SI) is a free service offered by the Center for Academic Excellence, available to all students in this course section. SI is intended to provide additional help in understanding course material. An SI leader will be present in class each day, and will hold 3 to 4 regularly scheduled sessions each week to go over material covered in class. The session times and days will be decided during the first week of classes in order to best meet the needs of the students.

The SI leader for this course is Jessica Sherrill, and she can be reached via email at jvs002@uncp.edu.

The University Writing Center, located in 131 Dial, will assist UNCP students with any writing assignment. The center will be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday, and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday. Appointments are not necessary, although they are encouraged. Students may make appointments by calling 521-6168.

The use of university computers as well as E-mail and Internet communication is for university-related business only.

Any student with a documented disability needing academic adjustments is requested to speak directly to Disability Support Services and the instructor, as early in the semester as possible(preferably within the first week). All discussions will remain confidential. Please contact Mary Helen Walker, Disability Support Services, DF Lowry Building, 521-6695.

This publication is available in alternative formats upon request. Please contact Mary Helen Walker, Disability Support Services, DF Lowry Building, 521-6695.

For the Emergency Information Hotline, phone 521-6888.


The instructor reserves the right to change or modify any of the above conditions.

Updated August 18, 2008 | linda.hafer@uncp.edu | Copyright © 2008 The University of North Carolina at Pembroke