Elementary Algebra Online

Syllabus

Spring 2009-section 5014
1/22 - 5/21

Prerequisites for this course are MATH 75 (or higher level class), or passing score on the assessment test.
 

Instructor : Despina Prapavessi

Tel: (925)685-1230 ext. 2845
dprapave@dvc.edu

Office: MA 122
 

Office hours: MW   10:00 am- 11:00 am and 1:15 pm - 1:45 pm in ATC 116,

                       Th 7:00 pm: 9:00 pm online; for information on how to access the office hours, go to http://voyager2.dvc.edu/faculty/dprapavessi/OfficeHours.htm

Course Content: This course is an introduction to the techniques and reasoning of algebra, including linear equations and inequalities, development and use of formulas, algebraic expressions, systems of equations, graphs and introduction to quadratic equations.
 

Textbook: The textbook  for the course is " Introductory Algebra  "(w/ My Math Kit) by Blitzer, Prentice Hall, Fourth Edition.  It is available both at the DVC bookstore and online.  The text comes bundled with a tutorial program, MyMathLab which provides multimedia content, tutorial practice, homework and testing exercises .

Be sure to check all system requirements and browser plug-ins below to make sure you have everything you need to run MyMath Lab.

Scientific Calculator: You will need a scientific calculator for this class.  Please make sure your calculator has the square root logarithm and exponential keys.

 

Method of Instruction:  All instruction will be delivered online at our online course site.  Before you begin, you must use the MyMathLab Installation Wizard to install the plug-ins and players you need to view and interact with the multimedia content in your course.
 

Homework: There are 16 homework assignments to be completed during the semester.  You must allow 10- 15 hours per week for your study and homework.  All homework will be submitted electronically, corrected and graded online.  There are many resources available to help you understand the material and complete your homework.  You can visit the Math Lab on the top floor of the LC building and get help with your homework, or one-on-one tutoring. 

 

Math Lab requirement:  This course has a requirement of 36 hours by arrangement in the math lab. Students are expected to learn effective study practices and time management skills through their work in the math lab. The lab requirement will be 1% of your course grade. Students will inform their instructor of their commitment to a specific time of attendance each week.  You will need your student ID number to log-in.  The Math Lab hours during the semester are M-Th 8am-10 pm, F 8am-2pm, SaSu 12 pm-5pm

Participation to online discussions on a regular basis is expected from every student in this class.  You will be expected to take part in class discussions, read, and reply to at least one other posting from your classmates every week. 

 

Student Portfolios: Every student is required to keep a student portfolio, with annotations, links, sample problems etc that highlight what was learned during the week.

 

Online Quizzes: You will be required to take ten online quizzes, one at the end of every chapter, for chapters 1 through 10. You may make up your online tests as needed to improve your score.

 

Paper Tests: Three paper tests and a cumulative final exam will be given in this class:

  • Thursday, February 26,  7:00 pm- 9:00 pm in the Learning Center, LC 200B (Paper Test 1)
     

  • Thursday, March 26,  7:00 pm- 9:00 pm  in the Learning Center, LC 200B.(Paper Test 2)
     

  • Thursday, April 30,  7:00 pm- 9:00 pm  in the Learning Center, LC 200B.(Paper Test 3)
     

  • Thursday, May 21,  7:00 pm- 9:00 pm  in the Learning Center, LC 200B. .(Final Examination)

Honor Policy: All students are expected to homework, tests, etc. and the final exam using their own work.  Any student found cheating will get a 0 on their work and may be dropped from the class.  In addition such students are subject to failing the class and a report to the Dean of students.

 

Course grades:  The course grades will be determined as follows:

    

     Homework: 20%

Math Lab Requirement 1%

Online Quizzes: 10%

Student Portfolios and Discussions: 9%

Three Paper Tests: 30%

     Final Exam: 30%

 

     Grades:  The grades will be assigned according to the scale:

     90% and above :A,

     80%-89%:B,

     70%-79%:C,

     55%-69%:D,

     54% or below :F
 

Important Dates: Last Date to Add:                                             02/02/09
                                                         Last Date to Drop with no W':  02/13/09
                                                         Last Date to Drop with 'W':         04/24/09 

 

Change in A&R policy: It is your responsibility to officially drop if you choose not to complete the class.  Please do not rely on me to drop you from the class.  If you neglect to submit a drop form to the Admission Office, you may receive an ”F” grade at the end of the semester.

 

 I hope you will enjoy studying Elementary Algebra online.  Please contact me if you have any questions or difficulties.