Intermediate Algebra
A. O’Leary
MATH 70
5 units
Prerequisite: Math 40 with grade C or better; or El Camino placement test
with passing grade
Instructor: Ms O’Leary –Tel:
Voice Mail (310) 660-3593 X4224
Office Hours: TBA
Office MCS 218
Text: Intermediate Algebra 6th edition…. J. Kaufman, etal
Objectives: This course is designed to bridge the gap between elementary algebra and more advanced courses in
pre-calculus mathematics. Topics include systems of equations, inequalities, and problem solving in one and two
variables, polynomials, rational expressions, conic sections, exponential and logarithmic functions. Math 70 is
equivalent to two years of high school algebra.
Attendance: Regular attendance is required for the entire class period. Otherwise an absence is recorded. A
student may be dropped after 3 unexcused absences. After 2 absences or a missed exam , a student should make
an appointment with the instructor. Student is responsible for all lecture and handout material during absence .
Tardiness: Every attempt should be made to come to class on time. Points will be deducted for excessive tardies.
After the first 2 classes, three tardies are allowed without penalty. Two points will be deducted for each tardy
thereafter.
Homework (HW): Assignments will be made at each meeting. It is due the next class meeting to be put on the
board and discussed. Student participation is required (Points are deducted from your hw for non-participation). In
general HW will be collected prior to an exam or after a chapter is completed , and graded. NO LATE HW
accepted.
In general, students will not use graphing calculators on exams.
A scientific calculator (LOG,LN, ex ,yx or ^ buttons required) and ruler for graphs is required
Exams: There will be 4-5 closed book exams and a cumulative two-hour final exam.
NO MAKE-UP TESTS will be given. If a test is missed, it is recorded as a zero. . See instructor if extenuating
circumstances occur. Please contact in person or call and leave a message
One such zero score (excluding final) will be replaced by 0.8 times the final exam % grade.
To receive a passing grade the final exam must be taken.
Grading: Your grade will be determined by the total points on quizes(15-30 points each), homework(10-15
points each exam), exams( 100 points each), and the final exam (approx 150-200 points). .
Tentative grading scale: 90-100 %- A
80-89%- B
68-79% - C
55-67%- D
0-54 %- F
Study Habits: Experience indicates that students with irregular attendance do poorly in school. Students who do
not keep up with their assignments do not do well on tests. According to your ability, you should plan. 4 hours per
class for study outside of class. Doing homework immediately is the key to success, as well as memorizing
formulas
Help is available in the tutoring room in MCS 106. Get a study buddy, use the tutor lab, and visit the instructor
during office hours as frequently as needed
Behavior: No disruptive behavior, talking, listening to walkman, doing other class work, cheating, etc is
tolerated and student may be dropped or asked to leave. Cheating on tests results in an immediate “F”. Please
turn off all electronic devices prior to entering classroom.
Because of liability, no children or visitors are permitted in the classroom.
Withdrawal: It is the students, not the instructors, responsibility to process an official withdrawal from class at
the admissions office. The last day to withdraw with a W is listed in the college catalogue. Students who
withdraw after this date receive an F for the course.