INTRODUCTORY ALGEBRA

Course Description: This course is a beginning course in algebra de signed for the student with a minimal background
in mathematics. Topics include an introduction to sets; arithmetic and algebra of counting numbers, integers, and
rational numbers ; algebraic techniques and applications; solution of linear and quadratic equations; solving system of
equations; factoring and multiplying polynomial operations ; rational expressions.

Prerequisites: Math 0320 or Math 0120 with a grade of “C”, or better, or equivalent as determined by the
mathematics assessment test.

Paper/Pencil lab: This course requires that you meet three hours in the classroom and three hours in a paper/pencil lab
setting. Check the location of your scheduled lab.

Attendance & Absences: Attendance is mandatory for both the classroom lecture and the lab. Three absences
are grounds for disenrollment.

According to the Academic Regulations posted in the 1999 -2001 Undergraduate Catalog, "Students are
expected to be diligent in their studies and regular in class attendance. On recommendation of the
instructor concerned and with the approval of the Dean, students may at any time be dropped from
courses for failure to meet the attendance requirements or other good cause. This may result in a
"W" or a "WF" on the student's permanent record" [p. 31].

Exams and Grading:
Major tests will be given at regular intervals as shown on the attached schedule. Any changes to this schedule will be
announced at least one week in advance. The departmental comprehensive final exam will be administered as listed in
the Course Schedule.

Your grade will be determined by the following formula:
Course grade = 50 %( major tests average and/or other graded activities) + 30 %( lab grade) + 20 %( final exam grade)

Your letter grade for this course will be assigned according to the following scale:

If you receive a grade of D or F, you will be required to repeat the course.

Homework: You are required to work on the assigned problems shown on calendar given by instructor.
Required Text: Beginning and Intermediate Algebra 3rd Edition by: Lial/Hornsby.
Recommended Text: Student’s Solutions Manual by Cole and Student’s Study Guide and Journal by Lial/Hornsby
Calculator: A graphing calculator is recommended .

You are responsible for your own writing materials such as pencil and paper. You are not allowed to operate any type
of electronic equipment in class such as cellular phones and beepers.

Important Dates

MATH 0421.61 Fall 2004 Tentative Schedule

Services Available on Campus to Assist You in Achieving Success

Students with disabilities, including learning disabilities, who wish to request academic adjustments in this class
should notify the Disabilities Service Office early in the semester so that the appropriate accommodations may be
made. In accordance with federal law , a student requesting academic adjustments must provide documentation of
his/her disability to the Disability Services counselor. For more information, call or visit the Counseling Center at
Tandy 205 (956-544-8292).

The Learning Assistance Center (N122) provides tutorial services. Their laboratory hours are from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00
p.m. Monday through Thursday and from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday. The LAC provides both individual
tutoring by appointment and group tutoring (walk-in sessions).

The MathXL Software is an on-line testing, homework, and tutorial system. You will need to obtain a registration
number to access this software. The registration number may have been packaged with your new textbook or it may be
purchased separately at the bookstore. The software is accessible from any computer that has Internet capabilities.

Below is a listing of the Lab quizzes for each particular chapter. The average of all these section quizzes will
constitute 30% of your course grade. Record your highest grade for each section in the space provided.

Math 421.62 Introductory Algebra Spring 2004