Syllabus

Math 1401 – College Algebra & Trigonometry

Fall 2007

Instructor:

Dr. Buxton Johnson

Office:

Room H204

Office Hours:

T Th 8: 00 – 9:15 AM

M T F 1:15 – 3:00 PM

Phone:

852-3168

E-mail:

johnsonb@kwc.edu

PantherNet:

My Courses > MATH 1401 – College Algebra and Trigonometry

Description:

Polynomials and rational functions, equations and systems of equations, logs and exponentials, right triangle trigonometry and then trig functions and identities in general, vectors.  Prerequisite: Three years of high school mathematics, which must include two years of algebra, or consent of the instructor.

Goals & Competencies:

The following General Education goals and competencies are addressed:

1. To think creatively: Can develop a unique, original approach to solving a problem.

2. To better understand the natural world: Can analyze the natural world and human efforts to achieve progress through involvement with it.

3. To use mathematics to better understand applied situations: Can use tools such as graphs, statistics, logarithms, etc. to analyze relevant data and/or test hypotheses.

Assessment will include homework assignments, regular exams, and a cumulative final exam.

Knowledge:

Ø Develop a fundamental understanding of the various concepts encountered in the study of algebra and trigonometry;

Ø Understand the development of mathematics from algebra through trigonometry.

Skills:

Ø Recognize the algebra and/or trigonometry involved in a variety of physical systems, develop appropriate mathematical models, and then use these models and known data to solve for unknown quantities and make predictions;

Ø Learn to solve problems in algebra and trigonometry.

Values:

Ø Develop a sense of responsibility;

Ø Develop an honest work ethic.

Content:

Ø Basic algebra;

Ø Graphs, functions, equations, and inequalities;

Ø Polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions;

Ø Trigonometry and trigonometric applications;

Ø Systems of equations;

Ø Conic sections.

Class Time:

M W F 11:00 AM – 12:15 PM Room H202A

Attendance:

Three (3) absences are allowed without affecting the student's grade. Beyond this, each additional absence will result in a 20-point reduction unless the absence is excused through the Academic Dean’s office.

Arriving late or leaving early is disruptive. Each two times will count as one absence.

Class Text:

Precalculus – Beecher, Penna, and Bittinger

Class Schedule:

Ch R – Basics of Algebra

Ch 1 – Graphs, Functions, and Models

Exam 1

Ch 2 – Functions, Equations, and Inequalities

Ch 3 – Polynomial and Rational Functions

Exam 2

Ch 4 – Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

Ch 5 – The Trigonometric Functions

Exam 3

Ch 6 – Trigonometric Identities, Inverse Functions, and Equations

Exam 4

Ch 7/9 – Applications of Trigonometry / Conic Sections

Final Exam

Exams:

Four exams and a cumulative final exam will be given during the semester.

Homework:

Homework will be assigned regularly to be due on a designated date.

Missed/Late Work:

Only excused exam absences can be made up for credit.

Only one late homework will be accepted for credit.

Grading:

Final grades will be based on the following:

Homework (8):	200 points
Exams (4):	480 points
Final Exam:	180 points
Total Possible:	860 points

Letter grades will be assigned as follows:

A - 90% to 100%

B - 80% to 89%

C - 70% to 79%

D - 60% to 69%

F - less than 60%

Cheating:

The first time a student is found cheating, copying, etc., a zero will be given on the compromised work. The second time will result in failure of the course.

Accommodations:

If you have a documented disability that may affect your performance in this class and you wish to request reasonable accommodations, please schedule an appointment with the instructor so that provisions can be made to assure you have equal opportunity to meet all the requirements of this course.

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Send comments and questions to: johnsonb@kwc.edu
Last modified: 8-12-2007