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Beginning Algebra Syllabus for 2014-2015
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Instructor Information

Instructor

Kimberly McGowan (Curriculum Vitae)

E-Mail

kdmcgowan@actx.edu

Phone

<p>806-345-5524</p>

Office Location

ENGR 203C

Office Hours

MTWR 10:30am - 11am;          MW 5pm - 5:30pm

others by appointment

Course Information

Recording Policy

Disability Statement

Any student who, because of a disabling condition, may require some special arrangements in order to meet course requirements should contact disAbility Services (Student Service Center room 119, phone 371-5436) as soon as possible.

Statement for Mental Health and Advocacy & Resource Center:

As a student you may experience a range of issues that can cause barriers to learning, such as strained relationships, increased anxiety, alcohol/drug problems, feeling down, difficulty concentrating and/or lack of motivation. These mental health concerns or stressful events may lead to diminished academic performance or reduce a student's ability to participate in daily activities. Amarillo College offers services to assist you with addressing these and other concerns you may be experiencing. If you or someone you know are suffering from any of the aforementioned conditions, you can learn more about the broad range of confidential mental health services available on campus by calling the AC Counseling Center at 806-371-5900. The AC Counseling Center website is https://www.actx.edu/counseling/ . Also, if you are in need of social services (affordable housing, utilities, transportation, food, clothing, childcare, medical/dental/vision, legal), please call the AC Advocacy & Resource Center at 806-371-5439. The AC Advocacy & Resource Center website is https://www.actx.edu/arc

Amarillo College Tutoring for Success Policy:

Administrative Drop Policy

N/A

Student Withdrawal Procedures

N/A

Privacy Statement

The Amarillo College Privacy Policy is found at https://www.actx.edu/-amarillo-college-privacy-notice , and applies to all Amarillo College students.  If you have questions about this privacy statement or you believe that your personal information has been released without your consent, send email to humanresources@actx.edu .

Course

MATH-0302-003 Beginning Algebra

Prerequisites

Prerequisite: MATH 0301-minimum grade of C, Accuplacer score of 41, THEA score of 180 or an equivalent score on a state approved test

Course Description

Operations with real numbers with an introduction to the complex number system; exponents and polynomials; operations with algebraic expressions, linear equations in one and two variables; linear inequalities in one variable; basic geometry; introductory graphing; systems on linear equations in two variables; factoring polynomials; applications.

Student Resources Student Resources Website

Department Expectations

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Occupational License Disclaimer

Hours

(3 sem hrs; 3 lec, 1 lab)

Class Type

On Campus Course

Syllabus Information

Textbooks

Elayn Martin-Gay, Beginning Algebra, Sixth Edition, Pearson; ISBN: 978-0-321-78491-9

Supplies

Student Performance

Student Performance/Learning Outcomes

After studying the material presented in this course, the student will be able to do the following as evaluated by the faculty in the Mathematics Department.
  • Apply the four arithmetic operations using the order of operations on signed numbers.
  • Apply the rules for exponents to simplify expressions.
  • Apply the arithmetic operations with polynomials and work with the many applications of polynomials.
  • Apply the four arithmetic operations using the order of operations on algebraic expressions.
  • Algebraically solve linear equations in one variable.
  • Graph linear equations in two variables using ordered pairs and intercepts, and using the slope-intercept method.
  • Solve systems of linear equations in two variables using methods of graphing, substitution and addition.
  • Algebraically solve and graph linear inequalities in one variable.
  • Demonstrate a basic understanding of geometry applications.
  • Understand and apply factoring to binomials, trinomials, and four-term polynomials.
  • Apply algebraic skills to solve equations from various types of stated problems.

Students Rights and Responsibilities

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Log in using the AC Connect Portal

In order to receive your AC Connect Email, you must log in through AC Connect at https://acconnect.actx.edu .

If you are an active staff or faculty member according to Human Resources, use "Exchange". All other students, use "AC Connect (Google) Email".

Expected Student Behavior

Behavioral Expectations/Classroom Ground Rules

You are expected to behave in the classroom, Math Testing Center and the Outreach Center in a manner that is supportive of the learning environment. Behaviors that are not supportive include, but are not limited to: tardiness/leaving early; electronic device noises; talking during lectures; abusive, offensive, or disrespectful language; abusive, offensive, or disrespectful demeanor toward AC faculty, staff, students and/or property. In order to receive credit for a course, all material listed on the syllabus must be covered. The instructor sets the pace to ensure that these requirements are met. Complaining about the pace will not result in less material being covered. If you fail to comply with the standards outlined in the syllabus and/or “Student’s Rights & Responsibilities” you will be subject to disciplinary action which may include, but is not limited to: removal from the classroom; consultation with the Mathematics and Engineering Department Chair and/or other AC authority; withdrawal from the course and/or the college.

Policy On Cheating and Plagiariam

Plagiarism and cheating will not be tolerated in any math course at Amarillo College. On the first day of class, you will be required to sign and date a Course Contract. Included in the contract is the following statement: "I fully understand that if I cheat, or attempt to cheat, on any test I will receive an automatic “F” in the course.  This grade will go on my permanent transcript and cannot be removed.  Cheating includes, but is not limited to: the use of a calculator with graphing capabilities and the use of cell phone calculators, the illegal use of books, notes, cell phones, copying or leaving the Math Testing Center with a test or questions from a test. Cheating also includes helping, or attempting to help, other students to cheat on a test." 
You will not be allowed to take your tests until this contract is signed and on file in the Math Testing Center. 
Please Note: NO CELL PHONES in the Testing Room. If we see your cell phone out AT ANY TIME, FOR ANY REASON, while in the testing room, YOU WILL RECEIVE an "F" for the course.

Food/Drink and Cell Phone Policy

Food and drinks are allowed in the Outreach Center, Durrett 104 and may be allowed in the classroom setting, at the instructor's discretion. Only drinks are allowed in the Math Testing Center, Durrett 103. Cell phones should be turned off, or in silent mode in the classrooms, Outreach Center, and the Math Testing Center. Cell phone calculators may not be used at any time.  Any device requiring headphones is not allowed in the Math Testing Center room.

Grading Criteria

Testing

All tests, including the final exam, will be taken in the Math Testing Center, Durrett 103, and may be taken during normal Math Testing Center hours, day or evening.Tests are to be taken outside of class lecture time.  If the exam is retaken, the higher of the scores is counted. You may use a scientific calculator with no graphing capabilities.
Please note: No tests will be given out less than one hour before the Math Testing Center closes and will be picked up five minutes before closing. You must present an Amarillo College picture I.D. every time you take a test in the Math Testing Center.

Chapter Tests

 Prior to testing, you will be required to complete an online test review and score a 70 or higher.  You will print the results from each online chapter test review and present the results to the Math Testing Center when requesting a test. Tests over each chapter must be completed by the deadlines set by your instructor. Your instructor will announce first attempt test deadline and a second attempt test deadline. Tests will be graded by your instructor and stored in the Math Testing Center during the semester. You may review a test you have already taken any time the Math Testing Center is open. You must present an Amarillo College student I.D. every time you review a test in the Math Testing Center. The Math Testing Center staff will retain your I.D. while you review your test and it will be returned when the test is returned.

Please note: Under no circumstances may a you take any test or questions from a test out of the Math Testing Center.

  • Each chapter test may be taken a maximum of two times. Test must be taken in sequence. If you score less than 70 on any chapter test, you will be required to complete a minimum of 30 minutes of mandatory tutoring.
  •  If your first attempt test is late, you will not be given a second attempt on the same test.
  • Any chapter test not taken by your instructor’s 2nd deadline will result in a loss of 5 points per day, excluding Sundays.The only  exception to this policy will be if you have an emergency.  Written verification of extenuating, verifiable circumstances will be required. 

Accessing Grades Online

To view your current course grades

  • Go to: www.actx.edu click on AC Connect and log in using your ACNetID and password
  • Click on your course
  • Check on My Grades on the menu to the left.

To view your Final course grades

  • Go to www.actx.edu click on AC Connect and log in using your ACNetID and password
  • Scroll down to Self Service on the bottom right of the page and click on Current Student
  • Under current student click on Academic Profile and click on Grades.

Be aware that the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (as amended) does not permit instructors or the Math Testing Center to disclose information regarding grades over the phone, via email, or to a third party. Therefore, if you need to discuss your grades, you must do so in person.    

Outreach Center -  Tutoring

When using the Outreach Center, Durrett 104, you are required to scan in and out with your Amarillo College ID.

  • Free peer tutoring
  • Mandatory tutoring:
    • In an effort to increase retention in developmental mathematics courses, if you score below a “70” or skip any chapter test (excluding final exam week) you must complete a mandatory 30 minute tutoring session with your instructor or in the Outreach Center before retesting or testing the next chapter. If you skip a test, you will need to complete a mandatory 30 minute tutor session for every test skipped.
    • Appointments  are required for 30 minute tutoring and can be scheduled in the Outreach Center, Durrett 104, or by calling 371-5119. 
    • A Record of Tutoring form will be given to you when you have completed a 30 minute required tutoring. You will not be allowed to take your next test without the completed Record of Tutoring form(s).
    • Outreach Center hours are available in the "Additional Information" section of the Syllabus.

Skill Drills

Once instruction has begun and homework has been assigned, 5-minute Skill Drills will be administered at the beginning of every class period over topics covered in class. It is important to be in class on time so as not to miss the Skill Drills.

  • Skill Drills must be completed in pencil, no credit if done in ink.
  • During the course of the semester, there will be a total of 128 points available on Skill Drills.  Your Skill Drill grade will be the total points accumulated over the course of the semester.  The highest score given will be a 100 even if you acquire over 100 points.
  • If your Skill Drill grade is higher than the lowest chapter test grade, the Skill Drill grade will replace that test grade when calculating your final average.
  • There will be no make-up Skill Drills for any reason. 

Homework

  • Following the presentation of materials in class, an online homework assignment will be assigned in MyMathLab for each section of the book covered. Homework assignments are due, fully completed online, by the deadline set by your instructor. Assignments will not be accessible after the due date set unless amended by individual instructor.
  • The problems due from MyMathLab program should be worked on notebook paper (or graph paper as needed), and kept in order in your notebook with each section labeled at the top of the page. The problems assigned are similar to problems in the textbook and to the test problems. You are required to do the assignmentsin MyMathLab. You will need to practice using the toolbar before you attempt the assignments  in MyMathLab. You need to be competent in entering your answers. You may continue to work on an assignment to make a better grade up until the due date for the assignment. You may access MyMathLab by going to: www.mymathlab.com.
  • You must register online for MyMathLab through AC’s Blackboard.

 Homework Notebook

  • The homework notebook must be a 3-ring binder with dividers. Notebooks must be brought to class each class period and will be checked periodically by the instructor.
  • Suggested order/dividers: syllabus ,class notes, homework assignments, chapter reviews, and reflective test journals.
  • Your notebook will include a minimum of the following:
    • Title Page
    • Dividers
    • Syllabus
    • Reflective Test Journal
    • Class notes
    • Organized homework assignments
    • Chapter test review work
  • Homework assignments should be:
    • On lined notebook or graphing paper as needed.
    • Completed in pencil .
    • Started on a new page for each section with the section title in the top right corner.
    • Organized running down the page, with up to two columns of work (not across the page in one line).
    • With answers circled
  • Your overall homework grade will be calculated by averaging your MyMathLab homework grade and your notebook grade. This grade will carry the same weight as one chapter test grade. Submitting all of your homework and keeping a detailed notebook is one of the best things you can do to improve your grade.

Final Exam 

Please Note: Your assignment deadline for the Final Exam is set by your instructor.

  •  A comprehensive Final Exam will be given after all chapter tests are completed.
  • During Final Exam week, you will be allowed to test Chapter 6 and the Final Exam. No prior chapter test will be available.
  • Final Exams will be graded by your instructor.
  • The Final Exam may be taken a maximum of two times.
  • The Final Exam must be taken by the date and time set by your instructor given to you on the first day of class. In all cases that will be no later than one hour before the Math Testing Center closes for the semester.
  • There will be no online review for the Final Exam. Instead there will be a pencil/paper review that must be completed and turned into the Math Testing Center when requesting the Final Exam test.

Unlike chapter tests, there is no provision for the late penalty deduction of 5 points per day. You must complete the Final Exam by the assigned due date and time as specified by your instructor. This deadline is independent of the date of closing of the Math Testing Center. Remember, the Final Exam counts twice.

Grading Policy

Required Materials
Grading Policy: Percentages: Grading Scale: Grade:
Homework 5% 90 - 100% A
Notebook 5% 80 - 89% B
Skill Drills* 10% 70 - 79% C
Chapter Tests(6@10%) 60% 60 - 69% D
Final Exam 20% Below 60% F
Attendance** - possible +/- points to final average

* counts once on its own and could also count as a replacement chapter test grade.
If your skill drill grade is higher than your lowest chapter test grade, the skill drill
grade will replace that test grade when calculating your final average.
** No extra credit opportunities are available other than attendance points
  • A grade of "F" will be earned as follows:
    • You complete the course with an overall average below 60.
    • You do not complete the course and do not drop the course in time to receive a grade of "W" and do not meet the requirements listed below for a grade of "I"(incomplete).
    • You receive an "I" (Incomplete) after signing an Incomplete contract, but do not satisfy the conditions for removal by the agreed-upon date.
    • You violate the cheating and plagiarism policy.
  • Incomplete:
    • A grade of "I" (Incomplete) is not generally given in developmental math courses. Any exceptions will be made by your instructor on an individual basis, and only for extreme circumstances.
    • A grade of "I" (Incomplete) will be possible only if you have no more than the Final Exam and one Chapter test to complete. If the instructor agrees to give the you an incomplete, you must sign a contract that specifies the requirements for changing the temporary grade of "I" to the letter grade you earned. You will have a maximum of three months from the date the contract is signed to fulfill these requirements. If you have not met those requirements by the end of the three months, the grade of "I" will automatically be changed to an "F". 
  • Withdrawal:
    • You will receive a "W" for a withdrawal/drop if the withdrawal is initiated before the deadline stated in AC Connect under Self Service - click on Academic Profile - "Important Course Section Dates."

Attendance

General Attendance Policy

Regular attendance is necessary for satisfactory achievement. Therefore, it is your responsibility to attend class and be on time for daily attendance check. Nonattendance will be recorded as an absence and no differentiation will be made as to excused or unexcused absences. Leaving class early or prior to dismissal time will be counted as an absence. You will be rewarded for perfect attendance, not only because you will receive the instruction you need to do the assignments, but you will also have two points added to your final average.

16 week classes meet 2 times a week
Perfect attendance: 2 points added to final average
1 - 3 absences: no change in final average
4 - 5 absences: 1 point deducted from final average
6+ absences:  3 points deducted from final average
16 week classes meet once a week
Perfect attendance:  2 points added to final average
1 or 2 absences:  no change in final average
3 absences:  1 point deducted from final average
4+ absences:  3 points deducted from  final average		 8 week classes meet 2 times a week
Perfect attendance: 2 points added to final average 
1 or 2 absences: no change in final average
3 absences: 1 point deducted from final average
4+ absences: 3 points deducted from final average
8 week classes meet 4 times a week
Perfect attendance:  2 points added to final average
1 - 3 absences: no change in final average
4 - 5 absences:  1 point deducted from final average
6+ absences:  3 points deducted from final average
 

These points definitely could result in a letter grade difference.  A failing grade may cause you to be placed on academic probation or suspension according to the provisions of the college catalog.  They may also affect admission to another college if you  transfer. 3 or more weeks of absences will be considered excessive and as failure to make satisfactory progress. These standards will be used in reporting to any agency that supports any student financially and requires satisfactory progress as measured by attendance (the Veterans Administration, for example).  If you quit attending and do not officially drop the course by the official drop date, a grade of “F” will be given.

Calendar

WEEK SUMMER I SUMMER II ASSIGNMENTS TESTS
1 5/26 – 5/28 7/6 – 7/9 Orientation, 1.2 - 1.8 Chapter 1
2 6/1 – 6/4 7/13 – 7/16 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5 Chapter 2
3 6/8 – 6/11 7/20 – 7/23 3.1, 3.2, 3.3 3.4, 3.5
4.1		 Chapter 3
4 6/15 – 6/18 7/27 – 7/30 4.2, 4.3
5.1, 5.2, 5.3		 Chapter 4
5 6/22 – 6/25 8/3 – 8/6 5.4, 5.5, 5.6
6.1, 6.2, 6.3		 Chapter 5
  LAST DAY TO DROP
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 24TH		 LAST DAY TO DROP
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 5TH		    
6 6/29 – 7/2 8/10 – 8/13 6.4, 6.5,REVIEW, FINALS Chapter 6  Final Exam*
  • Calendar is subject to change.
  • Testing dates and deadlines will be provided by your instructor.
  • Only Chapter 6 and the Final Exam will be available for testing.

*Check with your instructor for your Final Exam Due Date.   

Final Exam Due Date:___________                            

 Time ___________________ contact your instructor: Your instructor will provide you with the following information.

Name:______________________________ 

Office Location:________________________

Office Hours:_________________________ 

Email Address:________________________

Phone Number:_______________________
It is of great benefit to gather fellow students' phone numbers in the event you want to call them to discuss an assignment or just ask them a question.

Name:___________________________Phone #______________________  

Name:___________________________Phone #______________________  

Name:___________________________Phone #______________________

Additional Information

Math Testing Center
371-5088		 Outreach Center
371-5119
Monday - Thursday Monday - Thursday
7:30 am - 10:00 pm
Last test will be handed out at 9:00 pm		 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
Friday Friday
7:30am - 8:00pm
Last test will be handed out at 7:00pm		 8:00 - 8:00pm
Saturday Saturday
9:00 am - 8:00 pm
Last test will be handed out at 7:00 pm		 9:00 am - 8:00 pm

MATH TESTING CENTER RULES

  • Books can be placed in the bookshelf before you request a test. 
  • To request a test fill out a “Test Request” slip.
  •  All tests must be taken in order. Once a test is taken, you may not go back and take (or re-take) a previous test.
  • An Amarillo College picture ID is required in order to take or view any test in the Math Testing Center. 
  • No scratch paper or notecards are allowed for testing. You may use the back of the test to show your extra work.  Once you have begun work on a test that is considered one attempt. You cannot leave the Math Testing Center and return to finish that test at a later time.
  • In the Math Testing room, please do not sit by someone with the same colored test. All purses must be on the floor.
  • The Math Testing Center will not hand out a test less than one hour before closes.
  • The Math Testing Center personnel will pick up your test five minutes prior to closing.
  • Students can log in to Blackboard to get their test results.
  • Tests may not be taken out of the Math Testing Center.
  • The Math Testing Center hours are posted on the outside door, in this syllabus, in Blackboard, and in the Math Testing Center. 
  • Please come prepared. If you do not have a pencil, you may purchase one from the Math Testing Center for 25 cents.  Please bring exact change. Pens are not allowed on any test.
  • Childcare arrangements must be made prior to testing. Children may not accompany you into testing room or be left unattended anywhere on campus.
  • CELL PHONE CALCULATORS ARE NOT ALLOWED.
  • Cell phones must be turned off as not to disturb other students who are testing. NO CELL PHONES in the Testing Room. If we see your cell phone out AT ANY TIME, FOR ANY REASON, while in the testing room, YOU WILL RECEIVE an "F" for the course.

Syllabus Created on:

11/30/-1 12:00 AM

Last Edited on:

11/30/-1 12:00 AM