Math 100B Introductory Algebra
Winter Quarter 2010
Daily, 1-1:50pm, Hertz 104
Instructor: George Kreppein
Office: Hertz 102b
Office Hours: 9 am daily
Email: Kreppeig@cwu.edu
Office Phone: 963-1827
Course Description
This course is designed to provide students with the algebra, problem solving, and academic
skills needed to be successful in Math 100C, Math 101, Math 102, Math 130, or Math 164.
Each lesson will be taught using at least two instructional methods as well as a problem solving
or critical thinking application. The course will emphasize appropriate use of the scientific
calculator as a mathematical tool.
Course Rationale
The course reinforces arithmetic skills and their applications while focusing on algebra.
Numerical, graphical, and traditional algebraic approaches will be used to give the student a
better understanding of the mathematical concepts underlying algebra.
Text: Elementary Algebra by Jay Lehmann with MathXL registration code
Calculator: a scientific calculator is required (a graphing calculator will also work)
Learner Outcomes
Concepts and Procedures
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Simplify and evaluate mathematical expressions
using integer, rational, and real numbers.
Read and apply scientific notation of real
numbers.
Recognize, apply, and model the four basic
operations of the real numbers verbally,
numerically, symbolically, and graphically.
Simplify and solve mathematical equations and
inequalities using symbols, tables, and graphs.
Understand and use the order of operations for
numerical calculations and for algebraic
manipulations.
Translate among numeric, symbolic, graphical,
and real-world representations of functions.
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Identify and use commutative, associative, and
distributive properties of the real numbers.
Recognize, apply, and model applications of
ratios and rates.
Recognize a variety of situations, including realworld phenomena, that can be modeled by
linear and absolute-value functions.
Manipulate and apply equations using square
and square root expressions.
Model and solve problems using rational and
radical expressions.
Solve a system of equations in symbolic and
real-world form.
Performance Skills
Problem Solving
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modeling real-world phenomena mathematically
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working on extended problems
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drawing on diverse knowledge and methods to
solve problems
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applying appropriate technology to solve
problems
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posing questions related to a problem
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generalizing problems
Critical Thinking
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Understand the difference between a fact and a
hypothesis.
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Make and test hypotheses.
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Create simple arguments to support a position.
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Read and critique another’s simple arguments.
Writing and Communication
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reading and understanding complex problems
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summarizing the essential ideas of a problem
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describing methods used to approach a
problem
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expressing solutions and solution paths in
written and verbal form
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evaluating and improving quality of written work
Technology Skills (Basic)
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Verify solutions using mental calculations.
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Know when to use a calculator to estimate or
find an exact solution.
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Use the following functions: exponents, inverse.
Group Work—Peer Tutoring
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working cooperatively with others, sharing ideas
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asking for assistance
Guidelines for evaluating and assessing the student’s ability to meet the learner
outcomes.
Student Advancement
Passing this course requires satisfactory performance in the areas of scholastic behavior,
coursework, and basic skills. Students must meet the following standards:
 No more than 6 absences and/or missed assignments (excused absences must be
permitted by the director).
 73% or better on coursework (including a passing grade on the final).
 Successful completion of Basic Skills tests.
Coursework
The coursework will consist of homework, projects, quizzes, and exams. Homework will require
the use of MathXL. Projects will involve a written component.
Mastery of Basic Skills
The Basic Skills tests cover skills that students are expected to know when entering the course.
Students must pass all 3 Basic Skills tests at an 80% proficiency level. Students may retake
these tests in order to meet the required proficiency level. Dates will be announced.
Final Exam
A comprehensive final exam worth 20% of the final grade will be given at the end of the quarter
covering all of the course’s learner outcomes. The content and type of questions will be similar
to quizzes and exams given during the quarter.
Grading
Grades will be determined by the following weights:
Homework 10% Projects 15% Quizzes 10% Exams 45% Final Exam 20%
Grades will be determined by the following scale:
93-100% = A 90-93% = A - 87-90% = B + 83-87% = B
73-77% = C
70-73% = C - 67-70% = D + 63-67% = D
80-83% = B 60-63% = D -
77-80% = C +
Below 60%=F
Home Work
Home work will be given after the completion of a section in the class. You will have 48 hours to
turn in the assignment. If the assignment is given on a Friday it will be due on Monday by
midnight. No late home work will be accepted for credit but home work turned in before the end
of the quarter will not count towards your six absences.
Quizzes
Quizzes will be given every Friday at the end of class except on weeks we have test. You will
have five to ten minutes to work on Quizzes in class so that I can clarify any points of confusion.
Quizzes will be due at the beginning of class on Monday.
Tests
There will be four tests which make up 45% of your total grade. If you miss an exam you may
take a make up exam with a valid excuse or with prior permission. Retake may be given in
some cases but should not be expected.
Projects
15 % of your grade will be based off of projects. You will have all of the quarter to work on the
projects and will be expected to do the majority of the work outside of class. The projects will
include a written component, a paper describing your work and the process you used, as well as
appropriate visuals related to your work.
Extra Credit
There will be one extra credit problem on every test. The Problem may not be math based but
will be covered in class.
Extra Help
If the office hours that are posted above conflict with your schedule and you need
additional assistance there is a math drop-in-lab that is opened Monday and Wednesday from
2-6 and on Tuesday and Thursday from 2-8, and Sundays from 5-8.
Support Services
A drop-in lab is available for students who need help on their coursework. Additional tutoring
support may be offered to students who require it—talk to your instructor for more details.
Students who have special needs or disabilities that may affect their ability to access
information and/or material presented in this course are encouraged to contact the office of
Disability Support Services on campus (963-2171).