STUDENT SYLLABUS
Course Name/Section Number:
CRN:
20480
MATH 0402 G2
Monday/Wednesday 8:00am – 9:50am Room 105
Instructor Name:
G. Skinner
Division/Dept.:
Academic Foundations/Mathematics
Office Hours:
By appointment
Office Number:
Gonzales Center Room 105
Office Phone:
830-672-6251
Instructor Email:
Gwen.Skinner@victoriacollege.edu
Instructor Website:
N/A
____________________________________________________________________________
Course Description (AMS)
This course surveys a variety of mathematical topics needed to prepare students for
college level statistics or quantitative reasoning or for algebra-based courses. Topics
include: numeracy with an emphasis on estimation and fluency with large numbers;
evaluating expressions and formulas; rates, ratios, and proportions; percentages;
solving equations; linear models; data interpretations including graphs and tables;
verbal, algebraic and graphical representations of functions; exponential models. This
course carries institutional credit but will not transfer and will not meet degree
requirements.
Prerequisite(s) (AMS):
A grade of C, S, SA, SB, or SC in Math 0305. Beginning August 26, 2013, this course is
designed for students who score 336 to and including 349 on the TSI Assessment.
Corequisite(s) (AMS):
EDUC 1300 unless already taken.
Disclaimer: The instructor reserves the right to change this syllabus as deemed necessary and appropriate.
SYLLABUS
Page |2
Required Textbook(s), Supplies, and Materials:
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
Required:
a. NMP loose leaf book – Handouts from Textbook. Math0402
Foundations of Mathematical Reasoning Course ( at the VC
Bookstore, $11.50)
b. An access code to MyMathLab is required, which has an additional
fee. You can buy the access code online at
http://pearsonmylabandmastering.com/ or purchase it at the VC
Bookstore.
c. 3-ring binder for this class only
d. Basic four function or scientific calculator. Not a graphing calculator or
cell phone calculator.
e. Writing materials – Pencils, eraser, highlighters, etc.
f. Basic computer skills to access online resources and information
Optional: USB drive
Learning Outcomes (AMS):
Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to demonstrate the following
student learning outcomes:
1. Students will develop number sense and the ability to apply concepts of
numeracy to investigate and describe quantitative relationships and solve realworld problems in a variety of contexts.
2. Students will use proportional reasoning to solve problems that require ratios,
rates, proportions, and scaling.
3. Students will transition from specific and numeric reasoning to general and
abstract reasoning using the language and structure of algebra to investigate,
represent, and solve problems.
4. Students will understand and critically evaluate statements that appear in the
popular media (especially in presenting medical information) involving risk and
arguments based on probability.
5. Students will understand, interpret, and make decisions based on financial
information commonly presented to consumers.
6. Students will understand that quantitative information presented in the media and
by other entities can sometimes be useful and sometimes be misleading.
Learning Goals - This course is a quantitative reasoning course. This means you will
learn to use, understand, and communicate about quantitative information. The course
has five goals:
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Communication goal: You will interpret and communicate quantitative
information and mathematical and statistical concepts using language
appropriate to the context and intended audience.
Problem Solving goal: You will make sense of problems, develop strategies to
find solutions, and persevere in solving them.
Disclaimer: The instructor reserves the right to change this syllabus as deemed necessary and appropriate.
SYLLABUS
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Reasoning goal: You will reason, model and make decisions with
mathematical, statistical, and quantitative information.
Evaluation goal: You will critique and evaluate quantitative arguments that
utilize mathematical, statistical, and quantitative information.
Technology goal: You will use appropriate technology in a given context.
Overarching Content-based Mathematics and Quantitative Literacy Learning
Outcomes
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Numeracy: Students will develop number sense and the ability to apply
concepts of numeracy to investigate and describe quantitative relationships and
solve real-world problems in a variety of contexts.
Proportional Reasoning: Students will use proportional reasoning to solve
problems that require ratios, rates, proportions, and scaling.
Algebraic Competence, Reasoning, Modeling: Students will transition from
specific and numeric to general and abstract reasoning using the language and
structure of algebra to investigate, represent, and solve problems.
Assessing Risk (Probabilistic Reasoning): Students will understand and
critically evaluate statements involving risk and arguments based on probability
that appear in the popular media, especially in presenting medical information.
Personal Finance: Students will understand, interpret and make decisions
based on financial information that is commonly presented to consumers.
Civic Life: Students will understand that quantitative information presented in
the media and by other entities can sometimes be useful and sometimes be
misleading.
Critical thinking will be incorporated throughout the course.
Assessments (AMS):
Assignment
Unit Exams
Class Assignments/ Preview
Assignments
Homework (Computer and/or textbook)
Quizzes (Computer and/or textbook)
Class Discussion
Departmental Final Exam
Percentage
Measure Learning Outcomes 1 – 6
Measure Learning Outcomes 1 – 6
Measure Learning Outcomes 1 – 6
Measure Learning Outcomes 1 – 6
Measure Learning Outcomes 1 – 6
Measure Learning Outcomes 1 – 6
SCANS (When Appropriate - AMS):
Disclaimer: The instructor reserves the right to change this syllabus as deemed necessary and appropriate.
SYLLABUS
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Course Requirements (AMS): All assignments must show ALL work. No credit will be
given if only answers are shown.
HOMEWORK / PREVIEW ASSIGNMENTS: The Preview Assignments will allow the student
to discover new concepts. Students will make a connection between new concepts and
previously learned material. Preview Assignments MUST be completed before class begins.
HOMEWORK / PRACTICE ASSIGNMENTS: All sections of foundational math at Victoria
College have an online homework component as part of the class grade. These assignments
are delivered via a web-based product called MyMathLab and can be accessed from any
computer that has an internet connection. Students are expected to complete these
assignments by the due date stated by the instructor. Instructors may at their discretion assign
paper assignments from the textbook. Late assignments will not be accepted.
Once the course begins students will register with MyMathLab. Instructions and a Quick Start
Guide will be handed out in class or made available through Blackboard. Students having
problems transmitting online assignments should e-mail their instructor immediately so that the
problem can get solved.
QUIZZES: Instructors have the discretion to have announced and/or unannounced quizzes
covering Preview or Practice Assignments. Failure to take a quiz will result in a grade of zero
for that quiz; quiz grades do not get dropped nor will makeup quizzes be given.
INSTRUCTIONAL MODE:
A combination of lecture, group learning, class discussion, review of quizzes and homework
assignments, guided practice and text reading assignments will be used. Emphasis will be
placed on improving critical thinking skills, study habits and written and oral communication
skills.
Classroom Etiquette: Our classroom will have an environment conducive to learning.
Examples of disruptive behavior include, but are not limited to, talking while the
instructor is teaching, discussing non-mathematical issues during class, coming to class
late, leaving class early, using profane language, sleeping, not turning off electronic
devices, using food, and/or tobacco products, etc. These actions can affect your
participation grade.
Classroom Expectations: This course is designed by the U.T. Dana Center under
the title New Mathways Project. More emphasis is placed on student centered
learning. I will act as a facilitator in your learning of the material along with
helping you achieve the learning outcomes and goals mentioned earlier in the
syllabus. You will participate in a group of your peers when the lesson deems it
necessary. You will finish all preview assignments before the start of the next
class. (If you do not, you will not be able to contribute to YOUR group.) You will
keep a notebook of the daily activities and notes. If you fall behind, you will find
help in tutoring (JH108), Academic CAFÉ (JH208), your group, or me.
Disclaimer: The instructor reserves the right to change this syllabus as deemed necessary and appropriate.
SYLLABUS
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CLASS PROCEDURES:
Instructors will lecture, lead, and facilitate class activities. Students are encouraged to
participate by asking and answering questions. The textbook (the unit being taught) should be
brought to each class meeting. Cell phones must be either turned off or silenced before class and
kept out of sight. Texting is not allowed in class.
Students that arrive late for class should see the instructor after class. Students that must leave
class early should advise the instructor before class. If a condition arises during class that forces a
student to leave early, that student should meet with the instructor before the next class meeting.
Criteria for Grading:
Assignment
3 Unit Exams
Homework/MyMathLab
Preview Assignment/ Quizzes/ Participation
Final Exam
Percentage
60% (20% each)
10%
10%
20%
EXAM PROCEDURES:
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Three (3) Unit Exams will be given throughout the semester.
NO MAKEUP EXAMS WILL BE GIVEN.
A Comprehensive Final Exam will be given in this course.
The Final Exam Grade will replace one missed Unit Exam grade of zero.
All exams are taken in the normal class room and time. The professor will
announce the day that the test will be taken.
CELL phone usage of any kind while taking a test will result in you earning
a 0 on the exam. I would advise you leaving it in your car or so far buried
in your backpack that there is ZERO chance of someone mistaking that you
may have used it around an exam.
If you make less than 75% on an exam, you must go to tutoring and receive at
least 30 minutes of help on the exam. There will be a form the tutor must turn in
to the professor. If you do not attend tutoring, you will not be allowed to
take the next test.
MATH RUBRIC: In an effort to ease grading and to have uniform grading amongst
different instructors, the following rubric will be used for all exams and the final.
It is based on a 3 point per problem system:
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
0 points: The student left the problem blank, or there were major flaws from the
start.
1 point: The student recognized the type of problem and started correctly, but
the student made some serious errors along the way.
Disclaimer: The instructor reserves the right to change this syllabus as deemed necessary and appropriate.
SYLLABUS
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2 points: The student correctly worked the majority of the problem. Minor errors
occurred such as forgetting a negative or a calculation mistake.
3 points: The student demonstrated the correct mathematical procedure to solve
the problem and answered the problem correctly.
Scores will be given based on percentage of earned points. If an exam has 20
questions, it is worth 60 points. If a student earned 30 points, his/her score would be
30/60 which is 50%.
GRADING EQUIVELENCY: Because Academic Foundations classes are not included
in students’ GPAs, grades are not recorded on an A-F scale. An "S" represents
satisfactory academic performance. A "U" represents unsatisfactory academic
performance. Academic Foundations uses the following grading equivalencies:
SA = 90-100
SB = 80-89
SC = 70-79
UF = 69 and below
Successful completion of MATH 0402 allows the student to enroll in a nonAlgebra intensive entry level math course, MATH 1332 or MATH 1342. Students
who need an Algebra intensive math course (such as MATH 1314, MATH 1324,
MATH 1316) are required to take MATH 0303.
TSI Assessment: Students may take the TSI Assessment at any time during the
semester. A MATH score of 350 or higher deems the student College Ready.
College Ready means the student has passed this MATH 0402 course and will no
longer have to attend. Please inform an instructor of your TSI Math score.
Attendance (AMS):
Among other factors, regular and prompt class attendance is very important for success
in this course.
 Attendance will be taken each class period and may be taken at any point during
class.
 To be counted as present, students must be in class when attendance is taken.
 Instructors will drop all students who do not attend prior to the Official Record Date
(ORD).
 Students may drop the course at any time before 65% of the course has been
completed for a grade of Q or W.
 Instructors may drop students from the course if absences exceed 20% of the
scheduled class meetings. **
 Instructors will drop students from the course when absences exceed 40% of the
scheduled class meetings
o unless said excessive absences accrue after the 65% drop date or
o unless students are in good standing.
 Students who miss class are responsible for all material discussed and any
assignments or announcements made that relate to the course.
 The ORD for this class is: February 6, 2016
 The last day to drop this course is: April 6, 2016
Disclaimer: The instructor reserves the right to change this syllabus as deemed necessary and appropriate.
SYLLABUS
Page |7
**It is the practice of The Division of Academic Foundations to drop students whose
absences exceed 20% of class meetings and who are failing.
Tentative Class Calendar (Including Each Major Assignment and Examination) - (AMS):
Math 0402 Schedule – Fall 2015
Week
Date
Wednesday,
1/20/2016
Lesson Covered
Section Titles
Syllabus
Syllabus
1A and 1B
How Big is a
Billion
1
Practice/Preview
Assignments
Syllabus
Syllabus Quiz
Wednesday Aug 26
2A and 2B
Monday Jan. 25th
2
2C and 2D
3C and 3D
3
Basic Algebra
Equations (solving
for missing variable)
4A and 4B
Scientific Notation
Ratios in Water use
Preview 3A and 3B
Estimating Sale
Prices
Practice 3CD
Preview 4A and 4B
Calculating Sale
Prices
Budgeting
Operations
Preview 4CD
4C and 4D
Practice 4C and 4D
Catch up/ Review
Using Graphs to
Understand Change
Review Lessons 1-4
Review
Algebra- Order of
Operations and
Solving Equations
5A and 5B
Displaying Table
Data
Monday, Feb 15th
5
Practice 4A and 4B
Budgeting and
Spreadsheets
Graph Analysis
Monday, Feb. 8th
Wed Feb. 10th
Practice 2C and 2D
Analyzing Water
Footprints
Wed, Feb. 3rd
4
Practice 2A and 2B
Preview 2C
Wednesday Jan.
27th
Monday, Feb. 1st
Building a Learning
Community
Doubling
Population
Practice 5A and 5B
Preview 5C and 5D
5C and 5D
Relative Frequency
Tables
Displaying Data:
Histograms
Wed Feb. 1th
Practice 5C and 5D
Preview 6A and 6B
Shapes of
Distributions
Disclaimer: The instructor reserves the right to change this syllabus as deemed necessary and appropriate.
SYLLABUS
6
Monday, Feb. 22nd
6C and 6D
Page |8
Making Decisions
with Data
Practice 6C and 6D
Preview 7A and 7B
7A and 7B
Boxplots
The Credit Crunch
Practice 7A and 7B
8A and 8B
More Credit Crunch
What is the Risk?
Preview 7CD
Practice 8A and 8B
Wed, Feb 24th
Monday, Feb. 29th
7
8
An Apple a Day
AlgebraWed. March 2nd
Polynomial
Operations
SPRING BREAK – March 14 through 18th
9C and 9D
Preview 9AB
Do you Trust the
Test?
Practice 9CD
Monday, March 21
9
Wed, March 23
Catch up/ Review
Do you Trust the
Test? (Continued)
Review Lessons 5-9
Algebra- 2-Step
Equations and
Polynomial
Operations
10A and 10B
Population Density
Monday, March
28th
10
Monday April 4th
11
Algebra- Equations
with
Fractions/Decimals
11C
Algebra- Equations
with
Fractions/Decimals
12A and 12B
Wednesday April
6th
Monday April 11th
13C and 13D
Wednesday April
13th
14C and 14D
13
Monday April 18th
State Population
Densities
Preview 10D
Practice 10C
Preview 11AB
Modifying and
Combining
Formulas
Practice 11C
Texting Distance
Practice 12A and
12B
Preview 12A and
12B
The Cost of Driving
13A and 13B
12
Practice 10A and
10B
Density Proportions
10C
Wed. March 30th
Review
Algebra Reaction
Practice 13B
Breaking Down a
Formula
Analyzing Change
in Variables
Preview 13CD
Analyzing Change
in Variables
(Continued)
Blood Alcohol
Content
Preview 14AB
Disclaimer: The instructor reserves the right to change this syllabus as deemed necessary and appropriate.
Practice 13C and
13D
Practice 14CD
SYLLABUS
Catch up/ Review
Wed, April 20th
Algebra- Equations
with Fractions/
Decimals
15A and 15B
Page |9
Balancing Blood
Alcohol
Review Lessons 1014
Proportional
Reasoning in Art
Review
Practice 15A and
15B
Monday April 25th
Proportion
Solutions
14
Wed, April 27th
Preview 16A and
16B
Algebra- FOIL and
Factoring
16C and 16D and
16E
Interpreting Change
Where Do We
Start?
Monday, May 2nd
15
Practice 16C and
16D and 16E
Preview 17A and
17B
17A and 17B
Predicting Costs
Expressing Linear
Relationships
Practice 17A and
17B
18A and 18B
Making the Call
Pricing your
Product
Preview 17C
Practice 18A and
18B
Backing out the
Sales Tax
Review Hand out
Wednesday, May
4th
Monday May 9th
16
Wed. May 11th
Algebra- FOIL and
Factoring
Review
Final Exam Week
Wednesday, May11 8:00-10:30 a.m.
17
Victoria College Student Services Addendum to Course Syllabus
Victoria College Student Services
Updated 07-07-2015
Additional information on Student Support Services can found in The Victoria College Student Handbook.
A link to the Handbook is in the Publications & Dates folder in the Pirate Portal. A hardcopy of The
Handbook can be obtained by contacting any Student Services office.
Disclaimer: The instructor reserves the right to change this syllabus as deemed necessary and appropriate.