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Welcome to Intermediate Algebra !
This intensive four credit course will span sixteen weeks.
This class does not satisfy college graduation requirements for math! Throughout this course you will
be asked to complete daily homework assignments, chapter tests and a final exam. Topics covered will
include properties of the real number systems, factoring, quadratic equations, exponents, and radicals.
This course will utilize the MyMathLab system for homework, while the tests will be taken on paper in
the classroom. If you do not understand something in or out of the class, do not forget that you are not
alone in this! 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, stop by my office if you would like to go over
something in more detail, create a study group with your 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 the techniques to analyze and solve various types of
intermediate algebra problems and utilize a graphing calculator to solve algebra problems, when
necessary. The following graphing calculators are approved for this course:
TI-83 or TI-84.
These
can be purchased on your own or in the MSU bookstore. Calculators haven’t changed much in the last
twenty years, so don’t hesitate to purchase a used one.
Learning Environment
As an active participant in this class, you will be attending class for four 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 the instructor questions about assignments.
Note: while you do have access to helpful learning tools in MyMathLab, these tools are not a placement
for classroom instruction and participation.
Expect to attend every class!
Textbook
Beginning and Intermediate Algebra by Tobey, Slater, Blair and Crawford; 5
th
Edition; Pearson.
NOTE:
You have the option of purchasing the online-only text 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 provide opportunities for
you to get to that point. Passing grades on quizzes and chapter tests demonstrates that you have
mastered the skills taught.