Homework in Tucson
Phil Cary, Chadron State College
Wendiann Sethi, Seton Hall University
Don Williamson, Jr, Chadron State College
Vision for refocused college algebra

Students will gain an understanding
of their surroundings through the
development of appropriate
mathematical models, performing
calculations and interpreting the
results of their models.
June 21, 2007
Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop
2
Goals for refocused college algebra

Students will be able to use or apply the
following in modeling:







Master algebraic rules
Analyze real situations
Apply problem solving strategies
Use properties of commonly used functions
Participate in partnerships and small teams
Use Calculator and Computer based technology
Communicate using mathematical terminology
June 21, 2007
Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop
3
Objective 1:
Master Algebraic Skills





Apply Order of Operations
Manipulate algebraic symbols
Solve equations
Apply and use functional notation
Understand properties of Real Numbers
June 21, 2007
Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop
4
Objective 2:
Analyze real situations



Collect, graph and analyze data from a real
situation
Determine a mathematical model from the
data
Interpret the resulting model
June 21, 2007
Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop
5
Objective 3:
Apply problem solving strategies





Clearly define the problem
Develop strategies to solve various problems
Learn how to predict the possible solutions
Understand when a solution is reasonable or
not
Learn to refine strategies when necessary
June 21, 2007
Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop
6
Objective 4:
Use properties of commonly used
functions


Learn the definition of a function and the general
properties of functions
Learn the definitions, properties and graphs of the
following functions:






Linear
Polynomial
Exponential
Logarithmic
Power
Learn when each of these functions occur in real
situations
June 21, 2007
Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop
7
Objective 5:
Participate in partnerships and small teams




Participate in in-class activities when the
student works individually, with a partner and
with a small-group
Learn to be an effective member of a team
Learn the advantages of team/partnerships
vs. individual
Build a network within the class and outside
of the class
June 21, 2007
Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop
8
Objective 6:
Use Calculator and Computer based
technology

Strengthen and build calculator skills



Regression tools
Plotting data and curve-fitting
Strengthen and build computer skills



Learn how to use Maple and Excel
Strengthen skills with Word and Power Point
Learn about resources on the Internet
June 21, 2007
Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop
9
Objective 7:
Communicate using mathematical
terminology



Strengthen mathematical vocabulary
Learn and strengthen writing skills though
assignments
Strengthen oral communication skills through
in-class discussion, small group
presentations, and individual presentations
June 21, 2007
Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop
10
Grades will be determined by the
following:






Homework
In class assignments
Tests
Multiple Projects – small group – paper &
presentation
Final Exam
Oral exam as a podcast (2-5 minutes)
June 21, 2007
Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop
11
Sample exam question

Scenario question: Buying a car vs. leasing a
car -> Which is the better buy if you travel
less than 5,000 miles per year for five years?
How would your answer change if you drove
more than 10,000 miles per year?



Present value or future value
Problem solving
Interpreting the solution -> decision making based
on quantitative information
June 21, 2007
Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop
12
Sample exam question (2)

The tables below show linear, exponential, or
quadratic data. Determine which is which, explain
your reasoning, and write a formula for the function
in each case and evaluate your function at x = 10
Table B
Table A
0
1
2
3
4
6.7
7.77
9.02
10.46
12.13
0
1
2
3
4
5.25
4
3.25
3
3.25
Table C
June 21, 2007
0
1
2
3
4
3.4
5.71
9.60
16.12
27.08
Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop
13