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Here are my tips for success:
1.
Read! Read the textbook/eText, not just the problem examples. Algebra textbooks don't
read like novels. Read slowly, practice problems on paper, and jot down questions. You may
not understand everything the first time you read it, but that is not an excuse to avoid
reading. Then re-read the lesson! You'll understand more the second time around and may
even answer some of your own questions after the second read.
2.
Practice! Work problems...that is, do your homework! The real key to success in
mathematics is working problems and practicing your algebra skills, daily if possible. The
more problems you practice, the better you get at working problems. The problems you are
struggling with are the ones you should spend more time on. Homework is necessary
practice for tests, which will be similar to the homework and project assignments. Test
questions will expect you to apply algebra concepts, use proper algebraic symbolism and
notation, and interpret your results.
3.
Be patient! Don't expect to understand a topic the first time around. Remember topics in
mathematics are not always understandable the first time they are encountered. That's just
the way it is in math. Expecting to understand everything you come across immediately will
only lead to disappointment and frustration.
4.
Spend as much time as it takes for you to get to the level you want to attain. There is no set
formula for the exact amount of time you need to spend on math to master it. You will find
out quickly - probably on the first test - if you are spending enough time studying. Even if it
turns out that you have to spend two or three hours on each section to master it, then
that's how much time you should take. Spending less time than that will not allow you to be
successful. The ultimate goal is to be able to work problems
without aid
.
5.
Learn to use your calculator. Students are encouraged to use a TI-83 or TI-84 calculator (no
TI-89 please) to complete assignments. Calculators are not required for this class, but you
may find them useful when you do your assignments, and you may use them when you take
tests. The TI-83 or TI-84 Plus calculator will, however, be required for your next class, MATH
103-College Algebra or MATH 210-Elementary Statistics, for example.
6.
Ask for help! This course is cumulative — what you learn at the beginning you will need to
know at the end—do not wait too long before asking for help. E-mail
kimberly.schwinler@minotstateu.eduor phone me at (757) 968-3320. I am always happy to
help students with algebra questions and concerns.
7.
Work together and learn with your classmates. By communicating about algebra, you'll
learn more algebra.
Free Online Tutoring!
Smarthinking
is an online tutoring service that includes tutorials and live chat twenty-four hours
a day, seven days a week! To access Smarthinking, login to Moodle by going to
www.dakotacollege.edu> online students > go to class. You will login using your
CampusConnection username and password. Once logged in, click on the DCB Learning Center
link. Then locate Resources and Technology, and click on the Smarthinking link. If you have
questions about Smarthinking, please contact the distance education office at 1-888-918-5623.
The Khan Academy
has an extensive library of content, including interactive challenges,
assessments, and videos that students can access from any computer with access to the