Math 031 76 Beginning Algebra Instructor Lathan Twining RM 131 Email twininglathane jccmi edu Purpose and Learning Objectives The function of education is to teach the student to think intensively and critically Intelligence plus character that is the goal of education Dr Martin Luther King Course Description Math 120 is the study of the following variables and variable expressions integers laws of exponents equations linear quadratic rational radical and absolute value linear inequalities linear systems coordinate graphing and problem solving Prerequisite s Course Goals Math 098 or equivalent The purpose of this course is to develop a progressive understanding of more basic algebraic skills concepts and problem solving techniques to obtain a sense of how and why algebra is used and to be able to relate these problems and use the learned problem solving techniques to real life applications Great emphasis will be placed on understanding of terms concepts principles and theories rather than cramming and memorization Math 120 Core Course Objectives Students completing Math 120 Beginning Algebra should be able to 1 2 3 4 5 Simplify basic algebraic exponential rational and radical expressions using mathematical processes and symbol manipulation Use algebraic processes to solve linear quadratic rational radical and literal equations and linear systems of equations Demonstrate understanding of concepts of linear equations by graphing a linear equation finding x and y intercepts and finding the slope of a line Solve basic application problems using algebraic processes and procedural techniques Demonstrate a knowledge of current technology and its uses and or scientific issues Math 120 Associate Degree Outcomes All courses at Jackson Community College address one or more of the institutionally defined Associate Degree Outcomes ADOs Math 120 contributes to the following outcomes ADO 3 Demonstrate computational skills and mathematical reasoning Demonstrates a basic knowledge of the structure of the real number system Demonstrates computational skills using positive and negative numbers fractions and decimals ratio and percents Demonstrates an understanding of algebra manipulating algebraic expressions solving linear equations applying the rules of exponents geometry and measurement data and descriptive statistics Uses and understands basic mathematical terminology Translates situations into mathematical symbols Represents mathematical information symbolically visually numerically and or verbally Understands that connections exist between mathematics and real world situations ADO 7 Rubric for Critical Thinking Incorporates new knowledge with old Converts complex concepts into useful personal language Solves new problems in new contexts Course Information and Requirements Attendance and Withdrawal Policy A person who neglects his education neglects his most valuable and vulnerable resource He neglects his future 1 Education is the best provision for old age Aristotle I strongly encourage you to come to me first to get help outside of class Please do not get behind because of lack of understanding I always want to do my best to help you understand this thing called math If your available time and mine do not match there are other alternatives for help outside of class For those who wish to use MML the code is price 64107 2 Tutoring Math Tutors are available Monday Friday A schedule is posted in the classroom 3 Study Groups I strongly encourage you to make a friend or friends in class that you can get together with outside of class One of the best ways to study and to learn is by helping one another Like they say Two heads are better than one From the three items above I hope it is obvious that your success is of utmost importance to all of us here There is never a need to feel lost because of lack of understanding There are so many ways for you to obtain math tutoring outside of the regular classroom There is always some type of math help available As long as you are being responsible for your learning by attending class doing the assigned homework and other classroom activities asking questions in class and seeking help outside of class from the instructor the tutoring services and your fellow classmates success will be yours 4 You are responsible for the homework assignments Attempt the homework assignments before attending lectures The lecture periods will be used to clarify and re emphasize previous material and to introduce new material If you fail to come to class you will not only miss the lectures but will also miss the quiz and homework review You will consequently receive a poor grade not because you cannot do math but because you failed to show up in class Remember there is a strong positive correlation between attendance and performance It has also been determined that for each hour spent in class one should spend at least two hours studying and reviewing outside of class Be sure to allow time to do your coursework to ensure success 5 6 Calculators Graphing Calculators TI 83 or TI 84 preferred are required for MTH 131 132 140 151 For MTH 120 a calculator is not required but it would be advisable to have a scientific calculator that performs the basic operations add subtract multiply and divide percents and fractions If you intend to extend your math skills beyond Mat120 It would be beneficial to get a TI 83 or TI 84 so that you get familiar with the various menus Attendance is required and will be taken in some fashion daily either by roll call or class work If you do not plan to attend class regularly you are advised to withdraw Missing three classes is sufficient reason to be dropped from class 7 You bear the sole responsibility for your withdrawal from this course just as you did when you registered for the course The last day to withdraw can be found online through the academic calendar 8 Classroom Behavior As stated in the Student Handbook misconduct for which students or visitors are subject to discipline are as follows 1 Dishonesty such as cheating plagiarism or knowingly furnishing false information to the College 2 Forgery alteration or misuse of College documents records or Identification 3 Obstruction or disruption of teaching lecturing research administration disciplinary procedures or other authorized activities on College premises 9 During exams all cell phones must be turned off and set on top of the desk If you have an expected emergency you must inform me before