FINITE MATHEMATICS I

I. Course Description

From the Benedictine University/Springfield College in Illinois Academic catalog: a survey of algebra , functions, graphs
and linear equations as applied to problems in economics and business. Topics include mathematics of finance , linear,
polynomial , exponential and logarithmic functions.
Prerequisite:
Credit hours: 3

II. Textbook and Materials

Required text: FINITE MATHEMATICS, S. T. TAN, 9TH EDITION
Supplemental materials: TI-83 scientific calculator (recommended), graph paper , folder for assignments and handouts,
notebook or binder for notes

III. Mission Statement

The mission of Springfield College in Illinois is to provide students the best liberal arts education in the Ursuline
tradition of a nurturing faith-based environment. We prepare students for a life of learning, leadership and service in a
diverse world.

IV. Goals, Objectives, and Outcomes

A. Goals:

To develop an understanding, appreciation, and competency with the basic concepts of finite
mathematics as it is used in the modern world in business and the natural and social sciences.

B. Objectives:

 The following Common Student Learning Objectives (CSLOs) will be addressed:

Content Knowledge (Lifelong Learning)
CK-1 Know and apply the central concepts of the subject matter
CK-3 Use technology to enhance learning

Communication Skills (Lifelong Learning and Leadership)
CS-1 Communicate effectively in oral and written forms

Problem-Solving Skills (Lifelong Learning and Leadership)
PS-1 Use inquiry and collaboration to solve problems

Self-Direction and Personal Growth (Lifelong Learning)
SD-1 Develop a sense of intellectual curiosity

C. Course-based Student Learning Objectives (CBSLOs):
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to
demonstrate their mastery of the following outcomes,
addressing the following CLSOs:

CBSLO-1:
Students will know the Cartesian coordinate system and be able to graph a straight line, find
the equation of a line, find the intersection of two lines, and solve application problems
involving linear equations in two variables .

CBSLO-2:
Students will be able to solve a system of linear equations using substitution , the Gauss-
Jordan elimination method , and using augmented matrices.

CBSLO-3:
Students will be able to perform operations with matrices such as addition, subtraction ,
multiplication, and finding the inverse of a square matrix .

CBSLO-4:
Students will be able to graph linear inequalities and find solution sets in two variables.

CBSLO-5:
 Students will be able to solve linear programming problems by graphing, substitution, the
Gauss-Jordan elimination method, and augmented matrices.

CBSLO-6:
Students will understand mathematics of finance such as simple and compound interest , future
and present value of annuities , and amortization and sinking funds.

V. Teaching Methods/Delivery System

Lecture, discussion, demonstration, group work, and computer laboratory work (if time permits)

VI. Course Requirements

Attendance policy:

You are expected to attend each class and to participate. An attendance sign -in sheet
will be passed around each class period. If you miss a class, it is your responsibility
to find out what was covered, learn the new material, and meet all deadlines.
Due to the accelerated nature of the course, should you experience a debilitating
medical condition which will prevent you from attending all classes, appropriate
medical documentation must be provided immediately in order to provide
reasonable accommodations.

Homework:

Problems from all sections covered will be assigned and handed in for grading.
Homework is to be turned in at the beginning of the class each week. If it is known
ahead of time that you will not be present on a homework due date, the homework
must be turned in before the missed class period. Homework will not be accepted
late.

In addition to the graded homework, you are expected to read each section that is
covered in class. Feel free (and I suggest) to work on additional problems for extra
practice.

Group Work:

Some work will be done in class in small groups. The assignments will be
completed and turned in during class. No make-ups will be made.

Exams:

There will be 4 exams that will be taken in class during the 10-week course. They
will be announced at least a week in advance. They will cover one to two chapters of
material at a time. If an exam is unavoidably missed, you must contact me before or
soon after to reschedule a make-up time. You must take the exam before the next
class period. Only once can you miss an exam and make it up. If an exam is missed
and no contact was made, a zero will be given. The comprehensive final exam will
be taken during its scheduled time on Dec 4.

Academic Integrity Statement:

Academic and professional environments require honesty and integrity, and these
qualities are expected of every student at Springfield College-Benedictine University.
In accordance with such expectations, academic integrity requires that you credit
others for their ideas. Plagiarism, whether intentional or not, is a grievous offense.
Any time you use words or ideas that are not your own, you must give credit to the
author, whether or not you are quoting directly from that author. Failure to do so
constitutes plagiarism.

Any incident of plagiarism and/or academic dishonesty may result in serious
consequences. Penalties for academic dishonesty vary depending on the severity or
extent of the problem but are always serious.

The following are consequences you may face for academic dishonesty:
• a failing grade or “zero” for the assignment;
• dismissal from and a failing grade for the course; or
• dismissal from the Institution.

VII. Means of Evaluation

 

VIII. Topical Course Outline

Week 1 – October 2

1.1 The Cartesian Coordinate System
1.2 Straight Lines
1.3 Linear Functions and Mathematical Models
1.4 Intersection of Straight Lines

Week 2 – October 7 OR October 9 [TBA on October 2]

2.1 Systems of Linear Equations: An Introduction
2.2 Systems of Linear Equations: Unique Solutions
2.3 Systems of Linear Equations: Undetermined and Overdetermined Systems
2.4 Matrices

Week 3 – October 16

EXAM #1 over Chapter 1

2.4 Matrices [Continued]
2.5 Multiplication of Matrices
2.6 The Inverse of a Square Matrix

Week 4 – October 23

3.1 Graphing Systems of Linear Inequalities in Two Variables
3.2 Linear Programming Problems
3.3 Graphical Solution of Linear Programming Problems

Week 5 – October 30

EXAM #2 over Chapter 2

4.1 The Simplex Method: Standard Maximization Problems
4.2 The Simplex Method: Standard Minimization Problems

Week 6 – November 6

EXAM #3 over Chapter 3

5.1 Compound Interest
5.2 Annuities
5.3 Amortization and Sinking Funds

Week 7 – November 13

5.3 Amortization and Sinking Funds [Continued]
Introduction to Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
Review/Catch Up

Week 8 – November 20

EXAM #4 over Chapter 4 and Chapter 5

Review of Exponential and Logarithmic Functions
Review for Final

Week 9 – November 27

NO CLASS/THANKSGIVING BREAK
Week 10 – December 4
Review for Final

FINAL EXAM

*Schedule may vary due to additional instructional need for student understanding. Test dates are not set for certain.

IX. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Springfield College-Benedictine University provides individuals with disabilities reasonable accommodations to
participate in educational programs, activities, and services. Students with disabilities requiring accommodations to
participate in campus-sponsored programs, activities, and services, or to meet course requirements, should contact the
Director of the Resource Center as early in the semester as possible.

If documentation of the disability (either learning or physical) is not already on file, it may be requested. Once on file,
an individual student’s disability documentation is shared only at that individual’s request and solely with the parties
whom the student wishes it shared. Requests are kept confidential and may be calling (217) 525-1420, extension 233.

X. Assessment

Goals, objectives, and learning outcomes that will be assessed in the class are stated in this syllabus in Sections IV and
VI. Instructor will use background knowledge probes, one-minute papers, reflective essays and/or other Classroom
Assessment Techniques as deemed necessary in order to provide continuous improvement of instruction. Students are
required to take part in all assessment measures.

XI. Miscellaneous

First Class Session:

Students should prepare for the first class session by reading in the textbook Chapter 1
Sections 1.1, 1.2, 1.3 and 1.4. At the first session, the instructor will pass out the assignment
sheet for Chapter 1. The sheet will include a list of problems from each section to do as
practice problems. Also, the sheet will include a list of problems to do, showing all work, and
to turn in on the date given by the instructor.

Classroom:

 Once class has started, all cell phones/electronic devices must be silenced and put away. They
may not be used for calculators. Appropriate action will be taken if a cell phone is sighted
and/or heard, whether it is a pop quiz for the entire class, or the individual is asked to leave
the class for that day. Additionally, calculators may not be used for games and are subject to
be reviewed. If any programs are found, the instructor may erase them.

Suggestions:

 Please take advantage of the free tutors in the Resource Center if you are having difficulty.
Also, do not be afraid to stop by my office. Most likely, I will be in there more often than my
office hours suggest. I will be happy to help with homework or any questions over the
material covered.

**This syllabus is subject to change at the discretion of the instructor to accommodate any instructional and/or student
need. Any changes will be announced in class.**