UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EASTERN SHORE
Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
MATH 101-1501 Intermediate Algebra
Syllabus Fall, 2009
Instructor:
Office Location:
Office Hours:
Manal Elbeshir
Kiah Hall 1122
MW 10:00-11:00 and 12:00-1:00
TuThr 9:00-11:00
(410) 651-7748
mmelbeshir@umes.edu
Phone:
Email:
Course Description
Topics in this intermediate algebra course include the algebra of signed numbers, solving
linear equations and inequalities, quadratic equations, operations on algebraic
expressions, and graphing. This course does not satisfy the General Education
Requirement in Mathematics.
Course Outcomes:
1. Use a problem solving approach to investigate and understand mathematical content.
2. Use mathematical vocabulary, notation, and structure to represent ideas, describe
relationships, and model situations.
3. Read and write presentations of mathematics with understanding.
4. Use and analyze algorithms.
5. Apply mathematical content and processes to model and solve problems from
situations within and outside mathematics.
6. Develop understanding of and appreciation for biographical and historical
development of mathematics.
Nature of the Course
Intended as a developmental mathematics course, Intermediate Algebra offers students
opportunities to refine and extend their understanding of mathematics content requisite to
college level mathematics. The course is designed to fill knowledge gaps and correct
misconceptions with a focus on skills-building.
Required Texts
Micheal Sullivan III, Katherine R. Struve, Janet Mazzarella (2009). Elementry &
Intermediate Algebra. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall. ISBN: 10-558-34235-3
(Custom Edition for UMES).
This is a custom edition bundled especially for MATH 101 Intermediate Algebra at
UMES. Packaged materials include the course text, MyMathLab Student Access Kit, and
the CD Lecture Series. Before purchasing used materials, students are advised that the
access code to MyMathLab included with the text purchase is required for the course and
is nontransferable.
Optional Materials
MyMathLab Student Access Kit. ISBN 0131478923 (Bundled with the text book).
This Access Kit is intended to provide students with opportunities to remediate basic
arithmetic skills. Students are encouraged to access the Arithmetic Skills Test through
the link provided on WebCT and use that diagnostic opportunity to inform their
purchasing decision regarding these optional materials. Based on performance on the
Arithmetic Skills Test, purchase of this Access Kit may be required by the instructor, the
Office of Retention, or both.
Course Requirements
Students who attend class regularly, complete assignments religiously, and utilize the
available academic support resources including those available on-line or through the
Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Access and Success, Student
Development Center, and the Office of Retention may expect to perform well on course
quizzes, tests, and examinations. Consequently, they may expect to complete the course
successfully.
Students in MATH 101 are expected to take full advantage of technology-based learning
opportunities available through this course. Materials bundled with the required text
include CDs that provide a video lecture on each section of the text. Student Access
Codes to MyMathLab allow students to access homework and quizzes as well as a variety
of interactive support vehicles including video clips, additional examples, and interactive
and animated presentations. Required homework and quizzes will be assigned,
evaluated, and recorded on-line through MyMathLab. The access codes provided
with the purchase of the required text are one-time-use only. Students are advised to
weigh the costs to acquire valid access codes against potential savings before purchasing
used courseware.
The University’s IT Department has ensured that all appropriate plug-ins have been
installed on the machines in labs available to undergraduates. Students will find the
MyMathLab logo on the desktop when they log in. Students who choose to utilize
private machines for MyMathLab assume responsibility for proper installation of
required plug-ins.
Students will be required to maintain a notebook to document progress and organize
materials. Students are expected to bring the notebook to class daily. Notebook sections
are to include (1) lecture notes, (2) tests and (3) quizzes, and (4) homework. Students
will access homework assignments, quizzes, and practice tests through MyMathlab. The
software provides problems and support, students input solutions, and the software
provides feedback. Students are expected to maintain handwritten records of the
problems as well as detailed solutions. This habit will prove useful to students during
tests: credit on tests is awarded for fully supported solutions, and no work shown implies
that no credit will be awarded. Instructors as well as tutors will need students’ notebooks
when providing assistance. Instructors will collect and grade students’ notebooks
periodically (grade to be included under attendance and participation).
Registration Policy
Consistent with University policy class attendance by unregistered students is not
permitted. Students are reminded that neither Intermediate Algebra instructors nor the
Course Coordinator will seek variations to University registration policy including
add/drop procedures under any circumstances. Students are strongly encouraged to
consult the UMES Academic Calendar for important dates including add/drop and
withdraw dates.
Support Services
At the first sign of difficulty, students are encouraged to seek assistance from their
instructor during posted office hours. Instructors will be able to broker a variety of
interventions including direct assistance as well as tutoring available through the
Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, the Office of Retention, and the
Student Development Center.
Study Habits
As a rule of thumb, undergraduate students can be expected to devote three (3) hours
coursework outside of class for every hour spent in class. Intermediate Algebra is a three
credit hour course. Consequently, students should expect that they will spend at least 1½
hours for each of 6 days a week. The course coordinator has arranged for daily
homework and quizzes accordingly. Those students who struggle with mathematics
should prepare to devote additional time. All students are encouraged to make a schedule
of their weekly activities. The weekly schedule printed from HAWKWeb is a good place
to start. In addition to class times, students should consider work study hours and time
for sleep, meals, recreation, exercise, and other important activities. Finally, students
should add an uninterrupted time block of 1½ hours that will be devoted to the study of
mathematics. Conventional wisdom supports that students who commit their schedules
to paper are more likely to devote the necessary time to their studies and are generally
more successful academically.
Arithmetic Skills Test and the Mastery Learning Approach
The Arithmetic Skills Test measures ability to perform calculations with rational
numbers. These skills are considered as requisite for successful study of Intermediate
Algebra, and are treated as such. Consequently, successful completion (14 correct out of
20) of the Arithmetic Skills Test is required for students to proceed to assignments
beyond Chapter I. Chapter I provides tips for successful study, algebraic expressions and
number sets, and properties and operations on real numbers. The Arithmetic Skills Test
will be administered by each instructor along with the Chapter I Test. Students who do
not pass the Arithmetic Skills Test will be required to purchase the Basic Mathematics
Access Kit described under optional materials to conduct an appropriate review.
Students who demonstrate evidence of their remedial effort to their instructor’s
satisfaction will be permitted to retake the Arithmetic Skills Test during the next
scheduled testing day. Class sessions designated for testing are identified on the outline
of course topics. The Arithmetic Skills Practice Test is available on-line through WebCT
for all sections of Intermediate Algebra as well as through I:\bird\apps\math101.
Students are encouraged to access the Arithmetic Skills Practice Test early as failure to
perform will slow their progress through the course.
Just as successful performance on Chapter I Test and the Arithmetic Skills Test is
required for students to proceed to the assignments in Chapter 2. Students are required to
demonstrate mastery of the material in Chapter 2 by scoring 80% or better on the
test(online) before proceeding to the assignments in Chapter 3. The course is studentpaced in this regard. Still, students are reminded that instructors are required to maintain
a lecture schedule that will permit all students in the class to cover all the material and
complete the course within one semester. Consequently, students who find they lag
behind an acceptable pace will need to access additional assistance available through the
Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, Access and Success, Student
Development Center, and the Office of Retention.
The 80% mastery rule will be relaxed for the Final Examination. Students who achieve
enough points on the Final Examination to maintain a “C” average for the course when
all course components (homework, quizzes, tests, attendance) are included will pass the
course.
Regular attendance to University Hour Supplemental Instruction is encouraged.
Additionally, students must access a MyMathLab practice test as a diagnostic tool and
follow the resulting Individualized Study Plan.
Attendance
Instructors will take attendance each day in each section of Intermediate Algebra.
Absences will be reported monthly to the Course Coordinator and to the Office of
Retention. The roll will be taken at the beginning of each class. Students must be seated
when their names are called to be considered in attendance. Tardiness will not be
tolerated. Attendance is also considered an important element of the course evaluation.
Attendance grades will be calculated as a simple percentage of the total number of
classes. In the event emergencies students are responsible to provide documentation (e.g.
note from Student Health Services) for an absence to be excused. Students are still
responsible for the material covered in the class(es) that are missed. A copy of the
university Attendance Policy is attached to this syllabus.
Examinations
Times and dates for examinations are indicated on this syllabus. Students are encouraged
to observe these important dates and arrange out of class activities around them.
Opportunities for examinations beyond these dates will not be provided. In the event of a
documented obligation that prevents attendance for a test (including participating on
athletic events or other University-sponsored activity), the test may be taken prior to the
scheduled date if the student provides the instructor with written notice 72 hours in
advance of the examination. Students are advised to make careful notice of the final
examination schedule provided by the University and plan their end-of-semester activities
accordingly. The final examination is scheduled for December 14, 2009
from 8:00 till 9:50 a.m. (instructor will announce the room #/place for
the test in the class). No opportunities to take the final examination
other than December 14, 2009 from 8:00 till 9:50 a.m. as established by
the University Office of Academic Affairs will be provided under any
circumstances.
Classroom Conduct
Students are expected to demonstrate respect for their classmates, their instructors, and
themselves at all times. Disrespect will not be tolerated. Trips in and out of class are
disruptive. Students should plan to arrive to class early and be prepared to attend for the
entire class period. Students are expected to turn off their cell phones and attend to
personal needs before class begins.
Precautionary Disclaimer
The instructor reserves the right to amend the course syllabus during the term. If changes
must be made, students will be notified. Class announcement is considered proper notice.
Office hours are subject to change depending on the instructor’s schedule.
Instructions for Student Athletes:
Any student athlete (or participant of other University activities) enrolled in class must
make an appointment within the first week of the semester to meet with the instructor so
that game schedules and travel schedules can be discussed and the instructor can clarify
for the athlete procedures and policies on make-up work. Student athletes are reminded
that absences (whether excused or unexcused) do not relieve them of their responsibility
to complete course assignments. Instructors must know in advance that absences related
to athletic events will occur so that early planning can take place. (See attached policy on
class attendance). Additionally, assignments and quizzes are available on-line through
MyMathLab. Since hotels generally provide free internet access student athletes are
encouraged to secure a laptop with appropriate plug-ins installed and fully utilize the
support services available on-line.
Dress Code:
Students are expected to exercise good judgment concerning appropriate dress for the
classroom. Dressing appropriately in an environment that is conducive to learning
requires that clothing not be distracting and is sufficient in quality and quantity to cover
and protect the body (particularly in laboratories). Individual freedom of dress is upheld
at UMES, but students should be respectful of the sensitivities of others and recognize
that dressing professionally is a part of the training the University desires to provide.
Attire that is more appropriate for the bedroom or night clubs should not be worn in the
classrooms, as such may be distracting or offensive to others.
General Reminders for Students:
 Students whose names do not appear on the official class roster will not be
allowed to attend the class.
Academic Honesty
Students are expected to secure, read, and understand their rights and responsibilities
relative to academic honesty under the UMES Student Code of Conduct: Student
Judiciary Manual (http://www.umes.edu/students/UMESStudentCode2003.pdf).
Students who cheat by violating the integrity of testing situations, copying the work of
others, or representing as their own work that they did not actually do will result in a zero
grade. Of course, students may appeal the decision of their instructor. This will require
the instructor to register the incident formally to the Office of the Vice President for
Student Affairs in accordance with established University policy and procedure.
Course Evaluation
Course evaluation will be based on five tests, a comprehensive final (worth two tests),
on-line quizzes, homework, and attendance/participation. Comparative weights of these
course components are as follows:
Tests (all)
Quizzes
Homework
Attendance/participation
Total
60%
15%
15%
10%
100%
Final grades will be based on the usual grading scale:
90-100%
80-89.9%
70-79.9%
60-69.9%
0.0-60%
A
B
C
D
F
UMES Policy on Class Attendance
All students are expected to attend all classes. Excessive unexcused absences for any
reason may result in either a low grade or course failure. All students will be
considered excessively absent from a class if they miss a class more hours during the
semester or term than the class meets each week.
1.
The University expects all students to take full individual responsibility for academic
work and progress. They are expected to attend classes regularly, for consistent
attendance offers the most effective opportunity open to all students to gain command of
the concepts and materials of their courses of study. Absences (whether excused or
unexcused) do not alter what is expected of students qualitatively and
quantitatively.
2.
The University will excuse the absences of students that result from instances such as:
illness (where the student is too ill to attend class), death in the immediate family*,
religious observance (where the nature of the observance prevents the student from being
present during the class period), participation in University activities at the request of
University authorities, and compelling circumstances beyond the student’s control.
Students requesting excused absences must furnish acceptable documentation to their
course instructors to support their assertion that absences were the result of one of these
causes. However, the nature of some courses will preclude makeup of assessments
missed. In these cases, students will not be penalized for excused absences; grades will
be completed on actual assessment as explained in the course’s syllabus. Otherwise,
students with excused absences will be given an opportunity to make up missed
assessments. The responsibility for granting excused absences and determining which
assessments can be made up lies with the instructor of each individual course. Absences
(whether excused or unexcused) do not relieve the students of their responsibility to
complete the course assessments.
3.
Students must notify their instructors of the reason of any absence as soon as possible.
Where the reason for an absence from a scheduled assessment is known in advance (for
example, in cases of religious observance or participation in University activities at the
request of University authorities), students must inform their instructors two weeks prior
to the absence, if known that far in advance or immediately upon discovering the
impending absence. Prior notification is particularly important in connection with
examinations and other major assessments since failure to reschedule them before
conclusion of the final examination period may result in loss of credits during the
semester. Where the reason is not known in advance (for example, in cases of health
related emergencies or compelling circumstance beyond their control), students must
inform their instructors as soon as possible after its development.
*Family members are defined as being one or more of the following persons:
Father, stepfather, grandfather or legal guardian.
Mother, stepmother, grandmother
Sister, brother, stepsister, stepbrother
Any person living as an integral member of a student’s home.
Academic Honesty
Academic honesty and integrity lie at the heart of any educational enterprise. Students
are expected to do their own work and neither to give nor receive assistance during
quizzes, examinations, or other class exercises. Because the university takes academic
honesty seriously, penalties for violations may be severe, including failing the course and
possibly being dismissed from the university. Students accused of academic dishonesty
will be given due process before disciplinary action is taken. Please request most
current policy and procedure followed when academic dishonesty accusations are
lodged by faculty against students from the faculty member, the academic advisor,
or the department chair.
Cheating and plagiarism are two of the most common forms of academic dishonesty and
are described below:
Cheating includes but is not limited to:
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
giving answers to others in a testing situation without permission of the
instructor;
taking or receiving answers from others in a test situation without
permission of the instructor;
having possession of test materials without permission;
taking, giving, or receiving test materials prior to tests without permission;
having someone else take a test or perform an assignment for you;
submitting as your own work, work done by someone else;
permitting someone else to submit your work under that person’s name;
falsifying research data or other research material;
copying with or without permission any work, e.g., essays, short stories,
poems, etc., from computer, hard drive or discs and presenting them as
your own.
Plagiarism is the act of presenting as your own creation works actually created by others.
Plagiarism consists of:
a.
taking ideas from a source without clearly giving proper reference in a
way that identifies the original source of the ideas and distinguishes them
from your own;
b.
indirectly quoting or paraphrasing material taken from a source without
clearly giving proper reference in a way that identifies the original source
and distinguishes the paraphrased material from your own compositions;
c.
directly quoting or exactly copying material from a source without giving
proper reference or otherwise presenting the copied material as your own
creation.
Course Outline: Please attach the schedule.