Algebra 1

This syllabus is subject to change at the discretion of the instructor.

Course Content: Math 084 is the first half of the elementary algebra course .
Included in this course is; operations on signed numbers, linear equations, linear
inequalities, graphs of linear equations and inequalities, systems of lines
equations and operations on exponents, polynomials and factoring . The course
will include chapters 1–6.5 in the course textbook. Math 084 is a prerequisite for
Math 097-S.

Daily Schedule: Each class will begin with questions from the homework.
Check your homework sheet for specific problems. To succeed at the study of
Algebra 1, you will need to attend class and come prepared with homework
completed. Attendance is taken on a regular basis.

Homework: Daily homework as well as problems from each chapter test in the
text will be assigned. Assigned homework is a beginning point only; do more
problems if needed to fully understand the concepts. Homework that is to be
turned in for credit must be on time. Late papers will not be accepted. Further
information on homework that is to be submitted for credit will be given in class.

Supplies: All work must be done in pencil. A good eraser is a necessity for this
class. Two spiral bound notebooks 8.5 x 11 are required; one is to be used for
homework assignments, the other for in class notes. Graph paper will be needed
for work in Chapters 3 and 4. Scientific calculators may be used on all tests and
homework. Cell phone calculators are not allowed to be used on tests.

Cell phones and pagers: In consideration of others, turn ringers off and use
cell phones outside of the classroom. All cell phones must be turned off during
the test times and may not be answered during a test.

Tests: Students must be present the day a test is given in class. Make-up tests
will be given only if I am notified within 24 hours of the test and the student has
an excuse that is acceptable to me. If a student misses a test and does not meet
the criteria for a make-up test, a grade of “0” will be given. The final exam for the
9:00am class of Math 084 will be Thursday, December 16, 2004 from
8:00am-10:00am.

Grading: The final grade will be computed by adding the points earned on the
chapter tests, homework that is submitted for credit and class participation. An
average of 70% or greater is necessary to receive a ‘S’ grade and meet the
prerequisite for Math 097-S. This class is graded as “Satisfactory” or “No Credit”.

Tutoring: Tutoring for Math 084 students is available in the Math Learning
Center. One or two elective credits can be earned for attending tutoring
sessions. Information on credit will be available in the Math Learning Center. I
urge you to form your own study groups to help each other.

Classroom Etiquette: Math 084 is taught in a college environment. Please
respect other students by allowing a learning environment that is both pleasant
yet mindful of the quiet necessary for others to focus on what the instructor is
teaching.

Math Anxiety Bill of Rights
I have the right to learn at my own pace and not feel put down or stupid
if I’m slower than some one else.
I have the right to view myself as capable of learning math.
I have the right to ask whatever questions I have.
I have the right to ask the teacher or tutor for help.
I have the right to say “I don’t understand”.
I have the right to fell good about myself regardless of my abilities in the study of math.
I have the right to be treated as a competent adult.
I have the right to define success in terms of my own goals.

Homework Assignments
Work all of the assigned homework problems plus any additional homework (handouts)
distributed in class. Unless otherwise indicated, the problems assigned are the odd
numbered only. Additional homework assignment will be assigned to be submitted for
credit. Late papers will not be accepted without a ’late homework voucher.’
McKeague Elementary Algebra 7^th Ed.