5821 MATH 090 J
Spring 2015
3:00pm- 5:10pm TTh #12-130
Math 90J Syllabus
Instructor:
Roger Ford
E-Mail:
rford@tacomacc.edu
AFC phone:
(253) 460 4399
Office hours:
2:00pm-2:55pm TTh building #12
7:40pm-8:00pm TTh building #12
And by appointment
Course Description:
Topics include linear equations, polynomials, factoring, rational expressions, and graphing. Scientific
calculator required.
The course objectives listed below make reference to the following Math Department Program
Learning Outcomes:
1. Create, interpret, and analyze graphs and charts that communicate quantitative or relational
information.
2. Determine, create, and use appropriate and reasonable mathematical constructs to model,
understand, and explain phenomena encountered in the world.
3. Determine and carry out an appropriate algorithm to solve problems that are amenable to
mathematical solutions.
4. Communicate mathematical information formally, using appropriate math notation and
terminology, and informally by using everyday language to express ideas.
5. Use technology to analyze and solve mathematical problems and to effectively communicate
solutions to problems, particularly those that cannot be solved efficiently by other means.
Course Objectives: Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:
1. Represent and interpret information numerically, algebraically, and graphically. (1,2,3,4)
2. Graph lines from equations and determine equations from graphs or points. (1,3,4)
3. Interpret slopes of lines as they relate to rates of change. (1,2,4)
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
Find slopes given graphs, equations, or data points. (1,3,4)
Add, subtract, multiply and divide polynomials. (3,4)
Interpret the meaning of integer exponents (1,4)
Perform operations with expressions containing integer exponents including scientific notation
(3,4,5)
Factor quadratic and other basic polynomials. (3,4)
Solve quadratic equations by factoring. (3,4)
Simplify rational expressions. Perform operations with rational expressions and solve rational
equations. (3,4)
Create algebraic models and use them to solve application problems (1,2,3,4)
Write clear and complete solutions to mathematical problems, including correct notation and
written explanations when appropriate (4)
Use a scientific calculator as appropriate. (5)
Prerequisites: MATH 085 with a minimum ‘C‘ grade or assessment above MATH-085.
ENGL/085 with a ‘C’ grade or equivalent.
Required text and Supplementary Materials: Elementary Algebra, Graphs and Authenic Applications
2nd edition by Lehmann. ISBN: 978-1-323-04313-4. MyMathLab will be used for some HW and comes
with the book when it is purchased through the TCC bookstore.
Calculator: This course requires the use of a scientific calculator. The TI-30XIIS is recommended.
Graphing calculators and other digital devices may not be allowed for tests. Check with the instructor if
you have a question whether your device is acceptable.
Class Format: For most classes, the class will start with a comment and/or review of prior class activities.
After reviewing the previous homework assignment, the class will be divided between lecture and in
class activities.
Assignments: The homework assignments will not be collected daily. It will be posted on the portal. At
the beginning of all tests, a homework assignment will be chosen at random for students to turn in. To
earn full credit on the homework the student must show their work, do the problems in proper format,
use graph paper when appropriate, use a pencil, follow the math department graphing guidelines and
use standard notebook size paper or engineering paper. There will also be problems assigned on
MyMathLab for each chapter and on the test day for the chapter the problems must be completed. No
late work in MYMathLab will earn points.
In Class Activities: During most class sessions, students will be in working groups and or doing
independent work. This work will be turned in and worth 2 points for each activity. Students absent will
not be able to make-up these points. For each of these activities the student is expected to check their
work for accuracy. These activities are designed to prepare the student for the homework and to aid
the instructor in determining the class’ strengths and weaknesses.
Project: During the quarter a project will be assigned that will be worth up to 50 points. The class will
have at least two weeks to work on the project.
Tests: There will be 4 tests (100 points each) and a final (comprehensive) test (100 points).
*Test#1 ……………April 21st
Chapters 3,5
*Test#2…………….May 7th
Chapter 6
*Test#3……….…..May 21st
Chapter 7
*Test#4……………June 4th
Chapter 8
*Final………….……June 9th
Comprehensive
* These test dates are subject to change due to class cancellations and other factors. The final will count
200 points if a student has missed a previous test. The final score may also replace the student’s lowest
test score if it helps their grade.
Test and Class grade: To earn full credit for problems on a test the student must show their work and
do it in proper form. When each graded test or project is returned, in addition to the grade on the
paper there will also be the student’s current grade to that point in the quarter. If a student wants more
information about their grade at another time they may see the instructor before class, after class or
during the instructor office hours.
Semester grade: The semester grade will be determined by the overall percentage of points earned on
the homework, online work, in class activities, tests, project and final. The grading scale is shown below.
GRADING SCALE FOR SEMESTER
93%-100%........ A
83%-86%.......... B
70%-76%...........C
60%-65%...........D
90%-92%.......... A-
80%-82%..........B-
68%-69%...........C-
BELOW 60%...... E
87%-89%.......... B+
77%-79%..........C+
66%-67%...........D+
Withdrawal and Incompletes:
Mar. 30----------Spring classes begin
Apr. 3------------Last day for 80% refund
Apr. 10----------Last day to drop a class with no grade reported
May 22----------Last day to withdraw with a grad of “W”
June 8-----------Last day of Spring classes
Other important dates and deadlines can be found in MyTCCPortal under College Info.
Attendance: The student is expected to be in class. If a student is absent from class, it is their
responsibility to check for announcements and assignments made while they were absent. If a student is
going miss a test day, the student must notify the instructor prior to the class time or as soon as
possible. If the student does not notify the instructor prior to the test class meeting and/or does not
have a valid excuse (as determined by the instructor), the student may not be allowed to make-up the
test.
Classroom Rule: Be respectful of others, the school and the learning process. Those not adhering to this
rule may be dropped from the class without credit or financial reimbursement.
Expected behaviors:
---Cell phones should not create a distraction.
---Check with the instructor about bringing visitors to class.
---Food/beverages are okay in class unless you leave a mess or are creating a distraction.
Classroom or grade dispute: If you have questions or concerns please talk to me first. If we are unable
to resolve your concerns, you should talk with Carol Avery (Math Department Chairperson) in building F2. She may also be contacted by phone at 460 4429 and by email at cavery@tacomacc.edu For quarter
grade grievances the process for appealing a grade can be found on the TCC Portal.
Academic Dishonesty: TCC students are expect to be honest and forthright in their academic
endeavors. Any form of cheating may cause you to lose points or potentially be dropped from the class
with a failing grade.
Accommodations: Students with disabilities that need auxiliary aids or service should contact Access
Services in building #7 (253 566 5328). Accommodations are not retroactive so act promptly to make
sure you letter of accommodation is in place. Students with special needs that require auxiliary aid or
services should contact Access services.
Academic assistance: Extra help is available at the Marc center in building #19S and the tutoring center
in the library. There are several websites that can help including Khan Academy.