MESA College Math 96 -- Intermediate Algebra and Geometry Instructor: Larry Foster Time: Mon and Wed: 7:05 9:30 PM Voice Mail: none Room: MS-120 Office Hours: Mon - Wed MS-222-F: 3:30 4 PM CRN: 87903 and Mon Wed MS-213 6:30 7 PM Email: lafoster@sdccd.edu You MUST have daily access to email and internet. web: http://classroom.sdmesa.edu/lfoster *** Text: Elementary and Intermediate Algebra, 6 th ed, by Bittinger, et.al. Pearson/Addison Wesley Publishing Geometry: fundamental concepts and Applications, by Alan Bass *** I do NOT care what form of text you use: hardcover, softcover, CD/DVD, rented, shared, or used. But you must do some homework to succeed. You could get by with either the 4 th or 5 th editions also. Prerequisite: A C or better in Math 46 or adequate score on the math competency test or Assessment Skill Level M30. Advisory: Completion of or concurrent enrollment in: ENGL 043 with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent. or Assessment Skill Level W4 & ENGL 056 with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent. or Assessment Skill Level R5 WARNING: A C in the Math 46 is a Kiss of Death. It implies you are missing 20-30% of the skills and knowledge and techniques required to succeed in this class: You know just enough to pass Math 46, but not enough to predict success in Math 96. I STRONGLY suggest you arrange to receive consistent help throughout this semester. COURSE DESCRIPTION: Intermediate Algebra and Geometry is the second of a two-semester integrated sequence in algebra and geometry. This course covers systems of equations and inequalities; radical and quadratic equations; quadratic functions and their graphs; complex numbers; nonlinear inequalities; exponentials and logarithmic functions; conic sections; sequences and series; and solid geometry. Other topics may include: Right Triangle Trigonometry, Inverse and 1-1 functions, and the Binomial Theorem. The course will also include application problems involving the topics covered. This course is the prerequisite for numerous transferable mathematics courses. It is assumed that you are (eventually) planning on taking a calculus course. You are expected to be able to remember and apply concepts and skills taught in previous math courses with little or no review. SLO Student Learning Outcome: These are questions developed by the Mesa Math Department. 1. Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the interrelatedness of the equation of a quadratic function with its graph, including the vertex, and x- and y-intercepts. 2. Students will use correct mathematical terminology to identify geometric solids and their properties. 3. Students will be able to correctly apply and solve an exponential and/or logarithmic equation to a real world application. COURSE OBJECTIVES: Upon successful completion of the course the student will be able to: 1. Solve systems of linear equations in two or three variables using a variety of methods, including matrices. 2. Graph the solution set of systems of linear inequalities in one and two variables. 3. Simplify and perform the basic arithmetic operations on radical expressions in both radical and exponential form and solve radical equations. 4. Graph nonlinear functions using various methods, including transformations. 5. Perform the basic arithmetic operations with complex numbers. 6. Solve quadratic equations including those having complex number solutions. 7. Identify and graph conic sections; 8. Solve absolute value inequalities and nonlinear inequalities in one variable. 9. Perform basic algebra with functions, determine whether a function is one-to-one and find the inverse of a one-to-one function. 10. Use the properties of and relationship between exponential and logarithmic functions to solve a variety of application problems; 11. Determine the pattern of simple sequences, including arithmetic and geometric sequences, and use appropriate notation in expressing the closed form of the sequence. Math 96 syllabus Page 1 of 5
12. Apply arithmetic and geometric sequences and their sums in solving related problems. 13. Identify three-dimensional geometric figures and apply the appropriate surface area and volume formulas. 14. Apply trigonometric formulas to find the missing parts from a variety of right triangles COURSE OUTLINE and SCOPE: The course will cover the following topics, but may cover other topics depending upon time restrictions. Topics identified with an ** are critical and will receive extra exposure and emphasis on tests, quizzes and the Final Exam. I. Systems of linear equations in more than two variables A. **solution by substitution B. **solution by addition C. solution by Gaussian elimination using matrices D. solution by determinants (e.g. Cramer s Rule) II. Systems of linear inequalities A. graph of a linear inequality in 2 variables B. graph of solution set of a system of linear inequalities in 2 variables III. Radical expressions and equations A. **simplification of radical expressions B. **basic arithmetic operations C. rational exponents D. **solutions of radical equations E. application problems, including the ** Pythagorean Theorem IV. Graphs of non-linear functions A. square root functions B. cube root functions C. **quadratic functions 1. vertex 2. axis of symmetry 3. intercepts D. **exponential functions E. **logarithmic functions F. transformations V. Complex numbers A. basic definition and theory B. arithmetic operations VI. Quadratic Equations A. **solution by factoring B. solution by completing the square C. **quadratic formula D. **complex numbers as solutions VII. **Conic sections A. **parabola B. **circle C. **ellipse D. hyperbola E. solve systems of equations of conics in standard form F. graphs of conic sections VIII. Inequalities in One Variable A. inequalities involving polynomials of degree two or greater B. inequalities involving rational functions C. **absolute value inequalities D. representation of solutions on the number line and in interval notation IX. One-to-One Functions A. identification of one to one functions using the definition B. identification of one-to-one functions using their graphs C. composition of functions D. definition of inverse functions E. determination of inverse function for a one-to-one function X. **Exponential and Logarithmic Functions Math 96 syllabus Page 2 of 5
A. definition and properties of logarithmic and exponential functions B. common and natural logarithms C. change of base formula and properties of logarithms D. application problems, including the appropriate use of a scientific calculator XI. Sequences A. determination of patterns in sequences B. arithmetic sequences C. geometric sequences XII. closed form notation for sequences A. partial sum formula for arithmetic series B. partial sum formula for geometric series C. infinite sum formula for convergent geometric series D. summation notation E. applications XIII. Solid Geometry A. classification of three-dimensional figures B. surface area C. volume D. applications in geometry XIIV Trigonometry A. six fundamental functions B. solve right triangles for missing side or angle C. applications of trig CALCULATOR: A scientific calculator (e.g. non-graphing, non-tablet, non-cell phone, ) will be necessary at all times. NOTE: A calculator may NOT be used on some tests and quizzes. Further, you may NEVER use a translating device, dictionary, tablet or laptop. I do not have calculators to loan. You may NOT use your cell-phone if you forgot your calculator. You may NOT share calculators during a test or quiz. COMPUTER: We may be in a classroom that has computers at each desk. Do NOT use them or turn them on especially during a test or quiz. A computer that is on (whether you used it or not) will be considered CHEATING. See below for penalties. METHOD of EVALUATION: Your grade will be solely determined by the cumulative points earned on tests, pop quizzes and a comprehensive final exam. The total number of points you earn will be divided by the total possible points, and the following scale will determine your grade: 90-100 % = A There will be: NO re-takes or do-overs 80-89.9 % = B NO curving (rounding up) 70-79.9 % = C NO make-ups 60-69.9 % = D NO dropping of lowest score 0-59.9 % = F NO extra-credit KEY: I do NOT drop scores. If you miss a test or a quiz, then it will be recorded as a ZERO. Be here!! However, I will use the Final exam percentage to replace ONE QUIZ or TEST score with the proportionalized percentage from the Final Exam. I will replace the score that most benefits you; It may be the zero from a missed quiz, or it may be the score from a poor test performance. WARNING: I will replace only one score. Except for the Final Exams, you may take a test EARLY, but must inform me well in advance. There are NO late tests; there are NO make ups. NEW: You must pass the Final Exam (both parts combined) with at least 65% in order to receive a passing grade in the course. Further, to be eligible to have one score replaced by the Final exam, you must at least 65% on the Final Exam. For example, suppose you had a B average prior to the final exam, but scored a 64% on the Final Exam. Then the highest grade I will award you is a D. INCOMPLETE: I do not give incompletes. TESTS: Tests are closed book, no notes, and to be done individually. Tests are almost exclusively show work. I expect your work to be patterned exactly as I have modeled similar problems in class. No appropriate work = no credit. I am the sole arbiter of what is deemed appropriate. I reserve the right to add some problems unlike those in the text. Further, some problems may be from previous chapters and previous courses. See above regarding scientific calculators. Be prepared for occasional pop quizzes that include topics from Math 38, Math 46, and Math 96. Math 96 syllabus Page 3 of 5
NOTE: I usually give take-home quizzes immediately after an in-class test. These take-homes are located on my website, and must be turned by the time/date indicated or severe penalties will be assigned. FINAL EXAM must be taken on the scheduled day/date. I will NOT give an early Final Exam. Change your vacation plans now!!! The Final Exam is over TWO (2) days, and is incredibly comprehensive. Start studying now!! METHOD of INSTRUCTION: Lecture, demonstration and discussion. Students should take notes and have their book with them so that we may discuss certain examples. I encourage student questions and participation. ACADEMIC ACCOMODATIONS: If you have a disability that may require special academic accommodations, please discuss this with me during the first two weeks of class. HOMEWORK: Any homework assigned is strictly optional. However, experience and common sense would indicate, practice makes perfect. If you don t practice, you probably will not earn a desirable grade. Students should expect to spend a minimum of 3 hours outside of class in practice and preparation for each hour of class. Obviously, this time may vary depending upon the student s background skills and knowledge. The answers to the odd-numbered problems are given in the back of the text. Please check your answers before coming to class. STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES: In addition to those noted above (read: District Policy 3100, in the college catalog.) Attendance: You MAY be dropped if you miss more than 6% (3+ classes) of scheduled classes; If you stop attending after the drop deadline, you will receive an "F." I do NOT give incompletes. Ultimately, you are responsible to withdraw/drop the class in a timely manner. Please contact me immediately if you have attendance issues. It is the student s responsibility to drop all classes in which he/she is no longer attending. NOTE: There is NO such thing as an excused absence. You are either here or not. Tardies and leaving early: Since I take roll at varying times and varying ways during the class, you may come in tardy, but be counted as absent. Or, if you leave early, you may also be counted absent, even though, in both instances, you were there for the majority of the class. You may be summarily dropped from the course (see above regarding Attendance). Once I have dropped you because of attendance issues, I will NOT sign any papers to reinstate you into this class. Don t take chances: Get to class on time, and stay for the entire class. Besides, you just might learn something. KEY: Pop quizzes can NOT be made up. Get here on time and stay the entire scheduled time. Behavior: Your behavior will be in accordance with District Policy 3100, contained in the Mesa College Catalog. Your actions may not interfere with another student s right to learn. Disruptive or rude conduct (directed at me or another student) will not be tolerated. Initially, you will be removed from the class for two (2) meetings (any tests or quizzes given during this time will NOT be subject to any form of make up, and is NOT eligible for the Final Exam replacement policy.). A letter of explanation will be sent to the Dean of Sciences and Mathematics as well as the Department Chair of Mathematics. Subsequent rude or disruptive conduct will result in your removal from the class and you will earn an F for the semester grade. Cell phones: TURN THEM OFF! I recognize that it is important to stay in touch with the baby sitter or the office or your sick child. However, when they ring, other students are distracted from the learning process. If you go outside to answer the call, you will miss valuable instruction. To change your behavior regarding the use of cell phones in class, I may begin to give a pop quiz each and every time a cell phone rings. These tests or quizzes may NOT be replaced by the Final Exam. Cheating: Students are expected to be honest and ethical at all times. Students who are found to be in violation of Administrative procedure 3100.3, Honest Academic Conduct, will receive a grade of ZERO on the assignment, quiz or exam in question and may be referred for disciplinary action in accordance with Administrative Procedure 3100.2, Student Disciplinary Procedures. This includes, but is not limited to using notes, the wrong type of calculator, cell phones, pda s, mp3 or Ipod players, sharing a calculator, books, using examples during a test or quiz; talking to you neighbor during a test or quiz; using cell phones, (or other) devices to send information from one person to another. The student(s) will receive a ZERO on the test or quiz, and a letter of explanation will be sent to the Dean. This test or quiz may NOT be replaced by the grade earned on the Final Exam. On the second infraction, the student(s) will receive an F in the class. NEW: There is an increasing number of students who are using proxies or ringers or stand-ins to take the course. Anyone caught doing this will immediately receive an F for the semester and a letter will be sent to the College President and Dean., Math 96 syllabus Page 4 of 5
and attached to your permanent file. At random times, you may be asked to show a picture ID. NO ID = NO test and NO make up. NEW: Once an exam or quiz starts, you may NOT leave the room. Take care of business ahead of time. EXTRA HELP: There are usually tutors available to help you in room Tutoring Center. You may also qualify for a TAP or STAR tutor. Private tutors are available, but do cost $$ money $$.. See me about Math 15a,b,c. Finally, if you purchased your new text as a BUNDLE, you received a special code that affords you free on-line tutorial help and extra practice from the publisher. TIME SCHEDULE: The published time schedule is only TENTATIVE. It may be changed at any time. Absence from class does not excuse you from changes made in the course content or time schedule. I suggest you exchange phone numbers and/or email addresses with SEVERAL members of the class. STUDY GROUPS: THE BEST WAY to learn is to work with others. I suggest you form small study groups (4-5 students). Sometimes other students can explain things better than the instructor. Sometimes you each fill the others needs. It boggles my mind when: I give a take-home quiz and students turn in a crumpled, scribbled-on paper, obviously completed at the last minute. Students fail to bring a scientific calculator to class. Students fail to bring extra paper, pencils and erasers to class. Students fail to bring their text to class. Students expect that a 30 minute office hour discussion will prepare them for an exam. Students fail to print out answer keys and review worksheets that are online. My printer broke. is NOT an excuse. Go to any public library. Go to the ILC. As a last resort, copy the problems by hand. THE FINAL ANALYSIS: There are no tricks or short cuts to math, or to life. There is hard work and perseverance. I am not suggesting that you will always succeed if you work hard. (Some people never get math. Sometimes fate and circumstance conspire against your success.) I am stating, however, that without hard work, perseverance and determination, you will rarely succeed. Learning is an active process. If you merely sit and listen, it is doubtful you will learn. You must earnestly do the homework in a timely manner. You must ask relevant questions in class. You must seek out extra help, when necessary, asap. The only person who truly cares about your grade is you. You must take the initiative to learn. "Do not judge those who try and fail. Judge only those who fail to try. " Math 96 syllabus Page 5 of 5