Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
24 1.2
1.3
31 1.7
1.8
7
Exam # 1
14 – 2.4
2.5
21 Pres. Day
No Class
Feb. 28
Exam # 2
7 3.3
3.7
14
Spring Break
21 3.10
3.11
Jan 19- Intro.
1.1
26 1.5
1.6
Feb. 2 1.9
Review
9 2.1
2.3
16 2.7
2.8
23 2.9
Review
Mar. 2 3.1
3.2
9 3.8
3.9
16
Spring Break
23 3.12
3.13
28
30 Exam #3
Review
April 4 4.1
4.2
11 4.5
4.6
18 5.3
5.4
25 5.8
Review
May 2 5.9
Review-Final
9-Final Exam
1:30-3:20PM
MAT 121
Spring 2011
6
13
20
4.3
4.4
4.7
5.1
5.5
5.7
27
Exam # 4
4
Review-Final
13
Thursday
Friday
Studying For a Math Test
Everyday study is a big part of test preparation. Do the homework when it is assigned.
Homework problems give you the practice you need to solve problems on tests. As you
do the homework, make a list of the formulas that use. Also, make a list of your
techniques. Clear up all concerns with your instructor before the test.
1. Start by going over each section. Review your notes. Try working the homework
problems again. Examine the illustrative problems in the text. Cover up the solutions
and work the problems yourself. Check your work against the solutions given.
2. Ask yourself what kind of problems have you learned to solve. What are the
techniques that you have used.
3. Explain out loud, in your own words, how each solution strategy is used. (e.g. how do
you solve a quadratic equation).
4. Put yourself in a test-like situation. Work the problems from the review sections at the
end of each chapter. Work on old tests, if they are available.
5. Study early- at least one week before the test.
Taking a Math Test
1. Look over the entire test. Get a sense of its length. Identify those problems, which you
definitely know how to do. Identify those that you have to give more thought about.
2. Start with the problems that you are sure that you can do. This will build your
confidence. Next try the problems that you think that you can figure out. Finally try
the ones that you are least sure of.
3. Work as quickly and continuously as you can. Write legibly. Show all your work. If
you get stuck on a problem, move on to another one.
4. Allocate the appropriate time for each problem. Take note of the point value.
5. Show all your work. It will make easy for the instructor to grade your paper. This is
usually to the student’s advantage. If your answer is incorrect, the instructor may
assign partial credit.
6. Do not waste time erasing. Draw a line through the work that you want ignored.
Move on.
7. Outline the steps need to solve a problem before working the problem.
8. Do not give up on a multiple step problem just because that you can not do the first
part. Attempt the other parts. If the other solutions depend upon the first part, at least
explain how you would solve the problem.
9. Make sure that you read each problem carefully and that you answered all the parts.
10. Verify your answers. Make sure that your answer makes sense given the context of the
problem. Use your calculator to verify your answers.
Problem Solving
Homework and Tests
The higher the math class- the more types of problems. In earlier classes, problems often
required one step to find a solution. Now, you will have to require several steps to solve
problems. You may want to break down the problems into smaller components.
Problem Types
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
testing memorization
testing skills
requiring application of skills to familiar situations
requiring application of skills to unfamiliar situations- a strategy is required
requiring that your skills be extended before applying them to unfamiliar situations.
These problems often require that you use a multi-step approach, and may involve
several different skills and techniques.
Write out the complete solutions to homework problems. If your answer is not correct,
rework the problem. If you still can not get the correct answer, get assistance. The
practice that you get from doing homework problems will make test problems easier to
tackle.
Tips
1. First and foremost is to understand the problem. Identify what is being asked for you
to find. Read the whole problem.
2. Identify all the pertinent data. Identify superfluous data.
3. Design a strategy or plan. Identify the skills and techniques that you have learned
that can be applied to the problem to reach a solution.
4. Execute the plan.
5. Examine your answer. Is the answer reasonable. How does the answer compare to
your estimate. Some strategies to use are: use more than one variable, construct a
table of related values, consider a special case, look for a pattern, guess and test,
draw a picture or a diagram, make a list, solve a simpler related problem, use
reasoning (logic), work backwards, look for formulas.
6. When solving an applied problem, first convert the problem into mathematics. If
possible, draw a picture. Label the picture with the data. Use variables. Identify the
goal of the problem. Find equations or inequalities that describe the relationships
among the variables. Solve the problem that you have generated Convert the answer
back into words.
Success in Mathematics
Tips on how to study mathematics- how to approach problem solving – how to
study and take tests.
Study Skills
Do not be passive but be actively involved in the learning process.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Take responsibility for studying, recognizing what you do and do not know, and seeking the necessary assistance.
Attend class every day and take complete notes. Test questions are based on the material and examples covered in
class as well as those in the text.
Be an active participant in the classroom. Read ahead in the book; try to work some of the problems before they
are covered in class.
Ask questions in class. There are usually other students wanting to know the answers to the same questions that
you have.
Good study habits throughout the semester make it easier to study for tests.
Studying Math is Different
1.
2.
3.
Math is learned by doing problems. Do the homework. Develop a strategy for solving the problem. Learn the
formulas and the techniques.
Each class builds upon the previous ones. Do not fall behind. Attend class, read the text, and do each homework
assignment.
Review the previous material as you approach new material. Identify and learn the key concepts.
College Math is Different from High School Math
A college class meets less often and covers material at a much faster pace than a high school course. You are expected
to absorb new material much more quickly. Tests are spaced farther apart and cover more material than before. Tests
are frequently comprehensive in nature. Homework is to be attempted but will not be checked.
1.
2.
3.
Take responsibility for keeping up with the homework. Make sure that you know how to do the problems that gave
you difficulty.
Devote a suitable amount of time each week for studying the material. Learning also occurs outside of the
classroom.
Tests are not necessarily harder but they do cover a wide range of material.
Study Time
As a rule of thumb, you should dedicate at least 2 hours of study time per class hour. This may not be enough.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Take as much time as you need to do all the homework.
Form a study group. Meet regularly. Use the phone. Go over the problems that gave you difficulty.
The more challenging the problem, the more time should be spent on it.
Take a positive attitude towards “word” problems.
MAT 121 S.C.C. -Intermediate Algebra-Homework Assignments- (A.M.B. – Sp 2011)
Section
Exercises
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.1
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.7
2.8
2.9
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.7
3.8
3.9
3.10
3.11
3.12
3.13
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
4.6
4.7
5.1
5.3
5.5
5.7
5.8
1,3,4,6,7,8
1,3,6,7,9,10,12
1,3,4,5,6
7,8,9
1,3,4,5,7,9
1,2,4,5,6,7
1,2,3,5,6
1,2
1-9 0dd
1,3,4,5,8,9
1,2,5-20
1-4,6
1,2,4,5,7,8,9
1,2,4,5
1,3,4,6,7
1,3,4,5,6
1,2,3,5,6,8
1,2,3,5
1,2
1,2,3,4
1,2,3,4,5
1-4
1,2,3,6,7,8,9
1,3,4,5,7,9,11
1,3,4,6,8,10
1,3,7,8,9,12,14
1,2,4,5,8,9,12,13,16,17,18
1,3,4,6,11,13,15
1,4,5,8,9,11,14,16,19,21,22
1,2,4,5,7,9,10,12
1,2,4
1,2,3,5,9,10,12,13,15,16,19,22,23,24
1,3,4
1,2
1,2,4,5,6
1,2,3,7,8,10
1,2b,c,d,f,3,5,6,9
Note: Additional assignments may be given using “My Math Lab”
Departmental and College Policies and Procedures
Unrestricted Withdrawal: A student may withdraw from a course with a grade of W during the
unrestricted withdrawal period. The instructor’s signature is not required.
Restricted Withdrawal: In order to withdraw during this period, the student must obtain the instructor’s
signature. A grade of W will be assigned only if the student is doing acceptable work at the time of the
request. Otherwise the student may receive a Y.
Grade of Incomplete: A grade of incomplete will be awarded only in the event that a documented
emergency or illness prevents the student who is doing acceptable work from completing a small
percentage of the course requirements. The guidelines in the general SCC catalog regarding a grade of
incomplete will be strictly followed.
Instructor-Initiated Drop: At the instructor’s discretion, any student who has not attended class regularly
may be administratively dropped from the course. However, students should be aware that non-attendance
would NOT automatically result in their being dropped from the course. Thus, a student should not assume
that they are no longer registered for a course simply because they are not attending. It is the student’s
responsibility to be aware of their registration status.
Final Examination Make-up Policy: The final examination schedule listed in the Schedule of Classes
will be strictly followed. Exceptions to the schedule and requests for make-up examinations can be granted
only by the department chairperson and for one of the following reasons:
1. Religious conflict ( e.g., the student celebrates the Sabbath on Saturday)
2. The student has more than three examinations scheduled on the same day as the math final.
3. There is a time conflict between the math final and another final.
If there is a last minute personal or medical emergency, the student may receive a grade of Incomplete and
make up the final within one calendar year. The student must provide written documentation and be passing
the class at the time to receive an Incomplete. Make-up examinations will NOT be given for reasons of
nonrefundable airline tickets, vacation plans, work schedules, weddings, family reunions, etc. Students
should consult the final examination schedule before making end-of-semester plans.
Honor Policy: The highest standards of academic integrity are expected of all students. The failure of any
student to meet these standards may result in suspension or expulsion from the College or other sanctions
as specified in the Scottsdale Community College Academic Integrity Policy. Violations of academic
integrity include, but are not limited to, cheating, fabrication, tampering, plagiarism or facilitating such
activities.
Special Accommodations: Students in need of special accommodations regarding instruction should notify
the Disability Services and Resources Office (480-423- 6517) as well as the instructor. Reasonable
accommodations will be provided to students with classified disabilities.
Computer Access and E – Mail: Students will need regular access to a computer in order to complete online assignments. Computers are available on the SCC campus. Students need a valid e-mail address, one
that is checked regularly. An e- mail address is issued by the college. The instructor may send class or
individual announcements and information via e-mail.
Promoting a Positive Learning Environment
As the instructor, I am expected to be professional, courteous, respectful, and empathetic
to students – and to
Begin and end class on time
Be prepared for each class section
Provide academic feedback and grade assignments in a timely manner
Be available for individual consultation
Clarify assignments and inform students of any adjustments in the class schedule
As the student, you are expected to be reflective, courteous, respectful, and empathetic to
classmates, instructor, and other College staff assisting you in the learning process- and
to
Be in class and be on time
Be prepared for class sessions
Participate in class activities
Follow instructions and complete assignments
Keep up with and turn in assignments by the due dates
Put forth your best effort
Ask questions when you don’t understand
Maintain knowledge of your grade status
Contact instructor immediately about concerns or situations that interfere with
your success in the class
Comply with the policies found in the College catalog and student handbook.
Important: Information included in this syllabus may be subject to
change. Students will be notified by the instructor of any changes in
the course requirements or policies.
It is each student’s responsibility to be familiar with the college policies
included in the college catalog and the student handbook.
Reminder
To contact me, please use one of the following:
e- mail: [email protected]
voice mail: Call -480-731-8866. Give my mailbox number: 56798
Office: 480- 423- 6581
Official Course Competencies
1. Use function notation
2. Solve quadratic equations by factoring, completing the square, and the quadratic
formula.
3. Solve equations quadratic in form.
4. Solve rational and radical equations.
5. Perform operations on complex numbers.
6. Perform operations on radical and rational expressions.
7. Simplify radical and rational expressions.
8. Simplify expressions involving rational exponents.
9. Graph quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions.
10. Identify the domain of quadratic, rational, radical, exponential, and logarithmic
functions.
11. Rewrite logarithmic expressions using the properties of logarithms.
12. Evaluate formulas involving exponential or logarithmic expressions.
13. Model and solve real-world problems using quadratic, rational, radical, exponential,
and logarithmic equations.
Scottsdale Community College
MAT121 Section 51793
Location: CM 465
Instructor: Arthur M. Bryton
[email protected]
Intermediate Algebra –Spring 2011
M,W –1:30P.M. – 3:10P.M.
Phone: 480-731-8866 (56798)
Fax: 480-423-6449
Text: Mathematics in Action: Algebraic, Graphic, and Trigonometric Problem Solving-3rd Edition. Consortium for
Foundation Mathematics. Pearson Addison Wesley. This book must be brought to class every session. In
addition, students will use My Math Lab. to supplement the text.
Required: TI 83 Plus or TI 84 Graphing Calculator.
Overview: This course is an exploration into quantitative methods and how they are useful in life experiences. The
course is designed to build a community of learners who share a commitment to understanding and intellectual growth.
The community of learners is accomplished through teamwork focusing on the day-to-day challengers of reading,
writing, conversation, and problem solving. The course is student -centered. Students are encouraged to document their
work by providing justification for their answers. Part of each class will be devoted to small group discussions of
assigned problems. Short lectures may be given to introduce a topic. Topics include: Quadratic, rational, exponential,
and logarithmic functions and equations; graphs of quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions; quadratic
equations; operations on rational expressions, radical expressions, and complex numbers; rational exponents; and
applications.
Attendance: This course may contain subject matter that is not covered in the text. Regular attendance is essential.
Prolonged absence or sporadic attendance will affect your ability to succeed. If you expect to be absent for an extended
period of time, please call the office or e-mail the instructor. Students may be withdrawn from the course for
excessive absences. All class sessions will start on time. Lateness is disruptive to the learning process. Please make
every effort to be prompt. Please shut off all cell phones and/or pagers. You are expected to stay for the full length of
the class period. If you must leave early because of an important appointment or an emergency, speak to the instructor
before class.
Homework: A homework assignment will be given for each class session. 10 assignments will be collected and
graded. Work must be neat, organized, and complete. Answers only will not be accepted. Students are expected to
read the material in the text accompanying the problems. All problems are to be attempted. The solutions to the
problems will be discussed the session following the assignment. Questions from students are encouraged. Students will
be expected to discuss their solutions to problems individually, or as part of a small group. Classroom participation
can influence the final grade in the course.
Grading: A student’s grade will be determined by the results on tests and quizzes, the completion of homework
assignments and the final examination. Students are responsible for all material covered in the text as specified by the
syllabus, in addition to the material covered by the instructor during the class sessions. Tests will be given in class and
must be taken as scheduled. ( See attached calendar). There are no retakes. A review will be conducted the session
preceding the test. Quizzes may be given in class or assigned using MY Math Lab. Each quiz will be worth 10 points.
Partial credit will be given when warranted. It is the student’s responsibility to maintain knowledge of his/her grade
standing. (Grades can not be posted at any time). Please contact the instructor as soon as a concern arises.
4 tests 10 quizzes 10 homework assignments
Final examination
Total -
100 points each
10 points each
10 points each
150 points
750 points
Withdrawal: Refer to your student schedule in my. maricopa.edu for the last day to withdraw without an instructor’s
signature. Refer to the chart on page 16 of the Spring 2011 Schedule of classes to determine the final day to withdraw
from your class.
Math/Science Center: The Math/Science Center is a place where you can work on your math assignments and get
assistance when needed. It is located in CM441A.
Student Information Form for MAT 121- Int. Algebra
Spring 2011
Please print the following information:
Student’s Name: Last___________________First_____________MI_______
Identification Number_____________________________________________
Street Address________________________________________________________
City_____________________________ Zip Code___________________
Home Telephone Number______________________________________
Work Telephone Number______________________________________
Cell Number________________________________________________
E-mail Address (PRINT)_____________________________________________
Did you complete MAT 090,091,092,093? Yes_____
No_____
If yes, indicate your grade: A_____ B_____ C_____ D_____ F_____ INC_____
Did you test in? Yes_____
No _____
I have read and understand the terms and conditions of course MAT 121, section 51800.
Signature_________________________________Date___________