Quinsigamond Community College
Division of Mathematics and Social Science
MAT 108 Applied Technical Mathematics I
TWRF 8:00-8:50, Room 207S
Professor: Andreana M. Grimaldo
Email: agrimaldo@qcc.mass.edu
Office Hours: Mondays 8 – 9 a.m.
Tuesdays 9 – 10 a.m.
(Math Center)
Office: Room 255A
Phone: 508.854.2789
Course Description
This course covers major topics in the study and applications of algebra and
trigonometry. Students will review fundamental concepts of algebra and approximate
numbers with problem-solving strategies. Students will learn to graph and write linear
equations in several forms; graph functions; solve and apply systems of linear
equations; apply perimeter, area, and volume to basic geometric shapes; factor
polynomials; perform arithmetic operations on algebraic fractions; solve and apply
quadratic equations; solve and apply right triangle trigonometry and vectors.
Technology tools are utilized in this course.
Prerequisite
MAT 095 with a grade of C or better on the MAT 095 departmental final exam or by
placement by the Computerized Placement Test.
Instructional Objective
To prepare the student with the mathematics required to ensure success in MAT 109
Applied Mathematics II and in the Energy Utilities Certificate or Associates program.
Course Requirements
Students will be expected to demonstrate an understand of and an ability to perform the
skills and applications associated with the course objectives.
General Course Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:








Define and apply functions
Graph functions, linear functions and inequalities
Find perimeter, area, and volume of basic geometric figures and applications
Solve system of equations by graphing, substitution, addition-subtraction, and
determinants and applications of systems
Apply basic factoring techniques to algebraic expressions
Simplify and perform arithmetic operations on algebraic fractions
Solve quadratic equations by factoring and quadratic formula
Apply Pythagorean Theorem and Right Triangle trigonometry
This product was funded by a grant awarded under the President’s Community-Based Job Training Grants as implemented
by the U.S. department of labor’s Employment and Training Administration. The information contained in this product was
created by a grantee organization and does not necessarily reflect the official position of the U.S. Department of labor. All
references to non-governmental companies or organizations, their services, products, or resources are offered for
informational purposes and should not be construed as an endorsement by the Department of Labor. This product is
copyrighted by the institution that created it and is intended for individual, organizational, non-commercial use only.
Required Textbook and Materials


Introduction to Technical Mathematics, 5th Edition; Washington, Triola, Reda;
Pearson-Addison Wesley Inc., Boston, MA 2008.
MyMathLab student access code (comes with new textbook or can be purchased
separeately).
Scientific calculator
3-ring binder, hole punch, 5 subject dividers



Student Resources

Math Center: The Math Center, located on the second floor of the HLC, is a free,
drop-in tutorial assistance for all students in any QCC mathematics course. The
Math Center is a welcoming place where students have the opportunity to work
intensively to improve their mathematical skills or simply drop by to ask a few
questions. The Math Center is open and staffed by qualified tutors the same
hours as the HLC. Check the QCC website or call 508.854.7487 for information
and center’s hours. In addition to providing tutoring, the Center houses student
math resources such as students’ and instrucor’s solutions manuals to your text,
computers and CD roms and review materials. Check the QCC Math Center
website, www.qcc.mass.edu/mathsupport/, for links to other math tutorial
websites.

MyMathLab.com is required. This website provides students with an interactive
textbook, video lectures, and online homework and quizzes.
Methods of Instruction
Classes will be a combination of mini-lectures, discussions, group work, and activities.
Attendance




Most students find it difficult to learn Mathematics on their own and, since this is
a rigorous course, it is expected that students will attend all classes for the full
period.
Attendance is mandatory. An attendance grade will be computed based on the
number of classes attended out of the number of classes offered. This grade will
be a test grade.
Missed classes: You will be responsible for making up that day’s work and
getting notes from another student.
Missed exams: You must contact the instructor ASAP. Failure to contact the
instructor will result in a score of zero.
Student Responsibilities

In Class Time: It is expected that every student will attend class prepared with all
necessary materials. This includes: textbook, 3-ring binder, calculator, writing
instrument. Every student will participate and be attentive during class time. NO





cell phones - this includes text messaging! Every student will respect the
educational rights of every other student in the classroom.
Outside Study Time: It is expected that every student will work at least two hours
outside of class for each hour the class meets.
Computer Usage: Many assignments will require computer access. It is
suggested that you organize computer usage early in the semester. You can use
computer in The Math Center or the Harrington Computer Center (Rm 379A).
Homework: Homework will be assigned at every class. Since homework will be
done online, the instructor will be actively tracking the results. Late homework
will not be accepted. A homework grade will be computed and will be counted
as a test grade.
Quizzes: Quizzes will be administered on a regular basis both in class and
online. Quizzes will be both skill-based and application based. A quiz grade will
be computed and will be counted as a test grade.
Exams: Exams will be accomplished by the student without any form of outside
assistance. Students should review the QCC Student Handbook for a full
definition of plagiarism and all resulting consequences.
Assessment
Students will be assess in various ways, including homework, quizzes, exams, and a
cumulative final exam. Remember, your written work is a reflection of your effort in this
course. Therefore, all work is to be written legibly!
Attendance
Homework
Online and written
8 Weekly Quizzes
Online and written
Module Exams
Exam #1: Tuesday, September 18
Exam #2: Tuesday, October 9
Exam #3: Wednesday, October 31
Exam #4: Tuesday, November 20
Exam #5: Friday, December 7
1 test grade
1 test grade
1 test grade
1 test grade
1 test grade
1 test grade
1 test grade
1 test grade
(Note: All exam dates are subject to change with notification)
Cumulative Final Exam
2 test grades
Monday, December 17, 9 a.m.
Final Grade: Mean of the above 10 test grades