Elementary Algebra (DSPM 0800) Syllabus - Spring 2008

COURSE DESCRIPTION
Topics for instruction include integers, algebraic operations, linear equations, inequalities, functions, graphing techniques, and systems of equations.  Methods for solving real-world applications are integrated throughout the course content.  Upon earning a grade of “C” or better, the student advances to Intermediate Algebra, DSPM0850.  (Prerequisite: DSPM0700 or entry assessment.)

REQUIRED:  MathXL access (Internet application)
                    (optional text) Elementary Algebra, Carson/Gillespie/Jordan, 2 ed., 2007
                 Addison/Wesley (publishers), ISBN: 0321358376,
                 a scientific calculator (TI-30X II) is recommended

COURSE OBJECTIVES
On the successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:
1.  simplify first-degree algebraic expressions
2.  create a table of values and a graph for given relations
3.  identify a function given the graph of a relation including the concepts of domain and
     range
4.  analyze the graph of linear functions identifying the x-intercept, y-intercept , and
     slope
5.  solve linear equations in one variable using multiple approaches – numeric, graphic,
     and algebraic
6.  solve linear absolute-value equations in one variable using multiple approaches
7.  graph linear equations in two variables by using ordered pairs, by using the intercepts,
     and by using the slope and the y-intercept
8.  determine whether two linear graphs are coinciding, parallel, or perpendicular by
     inspecting their corresponding equations
9.  write linear equations in two variables when given information about their graphs
10. solve systems of linear equations graphically and algebraically (by using substitutions
     and by using elimination
11. solve linear inequalities in one variable
12. graph linear inequalities in two variables
13. solve systems of two linear inequalities in two variables graphically
14. solve formulas and literal equations for a specified variable
15. solve geometric applications
16. solve real-world applications that are integrated throughout the course content
17. add, subtract, multiply, and divide polynomials
18. factor polynomials of the form ax²+bx+c where a=1
19. factor polynomials by factoring the Greatest Common Factor (GCF)
20. simplify expression involving integer exponents by using the rules for exponents

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Attendance:  Regular class attendance is required and is necessary for success in any mathematics course.  Students are expected to attend class and to be on time for each class meeting. Attendance is taken at the beginning of each instructional period.  Two late arrivals to class (tardies) will constitute one absence.  Habitual tardiness will not be tolerated.  After 4 tardies, the student’s final grade will be lowered a full letter grade. Any tardy or any premature departure in excess of 10 minutes will be considered an absence.  Points will be deducted for any absence.  There are no “excused” absences.  The attendance penalty will be the number of absences squared.  1 absence = 1² = 1 point deduction, 2 absences = 2² = 4 points deduction, 3 absences = 3² = 9 points deduction, 4 absences = 4² = 16 points deduction, 5 absences = 5² = 25 points deduction.
NOTE: Absences in excess of 5 will result in a grade of “F” which means the student must repeat the course for credit.  Please take the attendance policy seriously.  In case of inclement weather, please call the Columbia State closing line at (931) 540-2515.
2. Cell phones, pagers, beepers, electronic games, lap-tops, etc. should be turned off and stored during class time.  The student may be asked to leave for the remainder of the class period if any disruption should occur.
3. Homework is an important commitment in a mathematics classroom. Homework is assigned daily following each instructional session.  Students are responsible for completing all homework assignments prior to the test date.  All homework is to be completed on-line utilizing the MathXL website.
4. Testing:  A scientific calculator is allowed in Elementary Algebra on Tests 2 through 4 and on the final.  You will not be allowed to use a graphing calculator on any test or exam.  Cell phones may not be used as calculators.  Scratch paper will not be allowed during tests.
5. Make-up tests will not be allowed.  If you are absent on the day of any scheduled test, you will be given a zero (0) on that test.  Your final exam grade will replace the missed test.  If you miss a second test, you will receive a zero (0) with no replacement of score.  Note:  You may not receive a grade greater than 80 for the missed test regardless of the final exam grade.
6. As a general rule, you will not be allowed to drop this course or any other Developmental Studies course.  You may be allowed to drop only in the case of an extenuating circumstance.  Before you will be allowed to drop, you must consult with your instructor and the Developmental Studies Chairperson.  A student not completing the course will receive a grade of "F" if official withdrawal procedures are not followed.  The last date to withdraw without a failing grade is March 27, 2008.
7. Student Conduct:  Cheating and other forms of academic misconduct, including plagiarism, are prohibited.  The instructor has the authority to assign a zero for the exercise or examination or to assign an F in the course in the case of academic misconduct.  Please refer to the Columbia State student handbook.
8. Visitors are not permitted to attend any class meeting.  This includes children, spouses, friends, students or any other person not registered for this course.
9. Students with Disabilities:  In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, students are encouraged to register with the counseling/disability services office (931-540-2572) for possible assistance with accommodations.  It is the student’s responsibility to voluntarily and confidentially provide appropriate documentation regarding the nature and extent of a disability.  Students requesting special accommodations are (strongly) encouraged to contact the counseling/disability services office at the beginning of the semester.
10. Crisis Management Plan:  Students should follow the instructor’s instructions in the event of an emergency.  A copy of the College’s Emergency Procedures guide is posted in all classrooms.

GRADING
The taking of all four tests and a comprehensive final examination is required.  If you have 2 or fewer absences during the semester, you may replace your lowest test score with your final exam score if the final exam score is greater than your lowest test score.
Your final grade will be calculated as follows:

A student who earns a grade of PR must retake the course the next semester that the student enrolls in this college.  The criteria for a PR (Progress) grade is as follows:

1. You must complete all homework assignments,
2. You must have 200 test points (out of the possible 400 test points),
3. You must attend class regularly,
4. You must not have previously received a PR in this course.

Note: Grades are not mailed to students.  You may access grades through Web for Students (www.columbiastate.edu) five (5) working days after grades are required in Admissions.

Important links:

Columbia State Library www.columbiastate.edu/lrc/
Bookstore http://coscc.bkstore.com/
Disability Services www.columbiastate.edu/studentsvcs/disability.htm

Elementary Algebra Home Page

The views and opinions expressed in this page are strictly those of Mary Lou Baker.
The contents of this page have not been reviewed or approved by Columbia State Community College.

This page was edited on 11-Jan-2008