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Welcome to Beginning Algebra!
This three credit course will be sixteen weeks. This
class does not satisfy college graduation requirements for math. Throughout this course you will
be asked to complete daily homework assignments, quizzes, chapter tests and a final exam.
Topics covered will include properties of numbers, fundamental operations, factoring, fractions,
exponents, radicals and equations. This course will utilize the MyMathLab system for
homework, while quizzes and tests will be taken on paper in the classroom. If you do not
understand something in or out of the class, don’t forget that you are not in this alone. Stop me
in class when you do not understand, utilize the “help me solve this!” feature in MyMathLab
when you are stuck on a question, or make a special time to meet with me about the question.
You can also create study groups with classmates, and/or ask for a tutor. This class will be
challenging,
but you can do it!
Course Objectives
As an active participant in this class, you will learn techniques to analyze and solve various types
of beginning algebra problems and utilize a calculator to solve algebra problems, when
necessary.
Learning Environment
As an active participant in this class, you will be attending class for three hours each week.
These classes will utilize both direct instruction and collaborative learning. This course utilizes
an online learning system called MyMathLab. Through MyMathLab, students will have access
to worked out explanations, textbook lessons and video demonstrations. Students may also
utilize the email tool to ask students and the instructor questions about assignments.
Note: While you do have access to helpful learning tools in MyMathLab, these tools are not a
replacement for classroom instruction and participation.
Expect to attend every class!
Textbook
Beginning and Intermediate Algebra,
Tobey, Slater, Blair and Crawford; 5
th
edition.
Pearson.
You have to option of purchasing the online only text with MyMathLab, or the textbook with the
online component. I suggest you use the free two-week trial of the online textbook before
making your final decision. You can purchase your textbook or online access code at the MSU
bookstore.
Course requirements
Learning algebra is an investment of time. Algebra is learned best by practicing, reflecting and
practicing some more. While understanding the steps in the topic explanations and video
presentations is a good first step, to truly master the material you should be able to look at a
problem, know how to proceed and be able to carry out the steps without assistance. The
multiple attempts allowed during independent practice (including homework and practice tests)
in MyMathLab provides opportunities for you to get to that point. Passing grades on quizzes and
chapter tests demonstrates that you have mastered the skills taught.