Intermediate Algebra Syllabus

Description: Quadratic, rational, radical, exponential, and logarithmic functions and equations; graphs of
quadratic , exponential, and logarithmic functions ; equations quadratic in form; operations on rational
expressions , radical expressions , and complex numbers; rational exponents ; applications. Prerequisites:
Grade of "C" or better in MAT090, MAT091, MAT092, MAT093, or equivalent , or a satisfactory score
on the District placement exam.

Text: Elementary & Intermediate Algebra, 2^nd Edition by Tussey & Gustufson. When bought new, this text
comes bundled with WebAssign, a software package we will be using. You may opt to buy the text
embedded in the software, that is, buy an etext.

Big picture: This class will require that you actively participate in each class session. The following are
components of the class:

• You will be working on problems together in groups during class. If you do not enjoy working
in groups, this class will probably not be a good choice for you.

• You will be writing and communicating about math, sometimes on the white boards around the
classroom.

• You will be doing homework online using WebAssign. This will provide you the opportunity to
get immediate feedback on your understanding of topics.

• You will be taking a weekly quiz to assess your knowledge.
• There will be a Mid- Term and a Final Exam.

Attendance: You are expected to attend each class meeting on time. Attendance will be checked each day.
Students with near perfect attendance (4 or fewer absences) will be allowed to drop one quiz score.
Three tardies, early departures, cell phone use in class, or walkabouts will count as an absence.

Calculator: You will need a calculator for this class, either graphing or scientific. I will be using a graphing
calculator (Texas Instruments 83). Since a graphing calculator is required for most sections of College
Algebra, and it helps make learning math more visual , I recommend you get the best calculator that you
can afford. The Math Department has graphing calculators available for students to rent. To rent a
calculator go to the Cashier’s and pay the $$, then go to The Math Solution to pick up your calculator.
Do it soon, as we have been known to run out of calculators. You will not be allowed to use a calculator
with a CAS (TI-89, TI-92, Voyage 200) on tests or quizzes.

Resources: In addition to your textbook, your classmates, and your teacher, GCC offers many resources. The
Math Solution has free tutoring, a textbook library, and computer programs to assist your learning.
Feel free to explore these to aid you in your mathematical journey. Also, GCC offers MAT 108,
Tutored Math, a class of tutoring help and student survival skills.

Homework: Homework is assigned to help teach or reinforce mathematical concepts. It is important that you
keep all your work organized so that you can use it to study for a quiz or exam. It is tempting to be
casual when working on the computer, but organizing your work will pay off in the long run. The
section homework is a minimum amount. You should do as more problems if necessary to understand
a mathematical concept. Each of the 39 sections will be worth 5 points.

As is the case with most college classes, you should plan to spend a good deal of time outside of class
preparing for class . The general rule -of-thumb is two hours outside of class for every one hour in class,
this means that you need to set aside at least ten hours a week for this class. That is two hours per
day. One hour will be taken up doing homework. The other hour should be spent reviewing the class
notes and reading ahead for the next day’s lesson.

Quizzes: There will be thirteen quizzes worth 20 points each. These will be taken on Friday after a short
question and answer session. They will be pencil (you must use pencil) and paper quizzes. There will
be no make-up quizzes. If you know you are going to be absent, you may take a quiz early. Please
contact me for details. All students will be able to drop one quiz. Students with near perfect attendance
may drop a 2^nd quiz.

Mid-Term & Final Exam: The Mid-Term will be given on Thursday and Friday, March 5 & 6, 2009. It
will cover all topics discussed in the first half of the semester. The Final Exam will cover all topics
discussed in the second half of the semester and be given on Monday, May 11, 2009 from 8:00-
9:50am. Plan to be here.

Grading:

Withdrawing: Should you decide that things are not going well and you wish to withdraw please see me
during my office hours. If you simply disappear from class, you may receive a failing grade. I reserve
the right to withdraw anyone from the class for excessive absences. The last day to withdraw is May 8,
2009.

Some Final Thoughts:

• Keep the TXTMSGS out of class: Mute and put away your cell phone before class! You may not use your cell phone as a calculator.

• FOOD AND DRINK: Food is not allowed in the classroom. Only drinks with screw-on lids are OK.

• MAKE IT TO CLASS: Your attendance counts, especially in a math class. Even one absence will hurt your understanding of the math.

• DO YOUR OWN WORK: Do not cheat or allow anyone to cheat from you. You will get a zero on any assignment if you are caught on
either side of this scheme. See GCC Student Handbook for further details.

• TAPING: If you feel it will help you, you are welcome to tape any class lectures.

• DISABILITY STATEMENT: If you have a disability that may have some impact on your work in this class and for which you may
require accommodations, Please notify Disability Services located in TDS-100. Telephone: (623) 845-3080.

If you feel that you cannot adjust to meet the requirements of this course as outlined, please feel free to switch
to another section of Intermediate Algebra . If you have any special needs or concerns, please make me aware
of them as soon as possible.