MATH 109 Pre-calculus - Syllabus


Text:

Precalculus: Functions and Graphs (4th Ed.)ebook, by Mark Dugopolski.  MML. Your ebook is found in MML. You will access MML through iLearn. The following video will show you how to access your book.Textbook and Video Resources for MyMathLab Homework

The required textbook for this course is a low cost auto access digital textbook. Access the textbook using the link provided in the Student Resources module of this course. You will be automatically charged for the digital textbook after the “Add” deadline (the end of the 2nd week of the semester).

If you do not want to use the digital textbook (perhaps you already purchased the print version of the textbook), you must opt out or you will be charged for the digital textbook. Follow this link if you wish to opt out: https://web.byui.edu/byuistore/booklist.

 

Calculator:

A scientific calculator is recommended for this course; however, before you purchase one please take note that there is a calculator built into the software for the course that can be used on homework and quizzes. If you plan to take Calculus (FDMAT 112) online a TI 36X Pro will be required so it is suggested that you use it for both classes.

 

Course Description/Objectives:

Combination of College Algebra and Trigonometry. This course is intended to prepare students for Calculus or other math and science courses. College Algebra topics include: elementary analysis of functions having discrete or connected domains, theory of equations, and methods for solving equations. Trigonometric topics include: triangle relationships, graphs, identities, inverse trigonometric functions, and applications. The following are learning outcomes of this course: 1. Students gain more appreciation and less fear of mathematics and its use in real-life situations. 2. Students have sufficient mathematical knowledge and problem solving skills that they will use to find solutions to quantitative situations. 3. Students apply their mathematical knowledge to subsequent courses (calculus, chemistry, physics, etc.)

 

Prerequisite:

A score of 23 or higher on the ACT math portion or a SAT math score of 540 or higher or Math 101 with a grade of "B" or higher or a score of at least 55 on the ALEKS test.

Preparation Time:

Principle Five of the BYU-Idaho learning model states: “Learners and teachers at BYU-Idaho love, serve, and teach one another”. In order to incorporate this aspect of the learning model in our course, it is important all students prepare and participate. Adequately prepared students should expect to spend 15-20 hours per week for Math 109. Many of the concepts taught and learned in Math 109 requires a solid background in high school algebra or Math 101 (a grade of “B” or higher). If you have not met this requirement, you should consider a different course or be willing to put in extra time to be successful in this course.

Grading:

Exams (5) 60%
Quizzes 15%
Homework 15%
Preparation/Participation/Group Work 10%
Total 100%

Grading Scale:

93-100% = A

90-92 = A-

87-89 = B+

 

83-86 = B

80-82 = B-

77-79 = C+

73-76 = C

 

70-72 = C-

67-69 = D+

63-66 = D

60-62 = D-

Below 60 = F

  

Exams:

There will be five exams given during the semester (see schedule for the dates) worth a total of 60% of your overall grade.  

 

Quizzes:

Quizzes will be given every week. You are allowed to use your book, notes, and calculator, but you are not allowed to use any outside resource for help on these.

 

Homework:

Homework will be assigned for each lesson from MyMathLab. Homework is due Saturday at midnight. Homework will be automatically graded upon submission.  Late homework for full credit will not be accepted; however, it will be accepted for partial credit until the closing date of the test that it pertains to. The three lowest overall homework scores will be dropped at the end of the semester. You are strongly encouraged to study together and work together on homework assignments. However, you each must submit your own assignment in your own words and should thoroughly understand everything you submit. Although you will submit your homework online, it is recommended that you keep a homework notebook. This notebook should include organized and written out solutions to the homework problems to help you to organize your mathematical thoughts and to use as a study guide for quizzes and exams.

 

Preparation:

Before each Group meeting using Zoom (see Group Work) you will complete a preparation assignment that is designed to enable you to teach one another during group work.  Directions and materials for these assignments will be on Brightspace (D2L).  Often such assignments will require students to post or submit their results or a verification of completion. Students providing thoughtful, complete posts and fully participating in class activities will receive full credit for these assignments. Preparation assignments may include videos, readings, checkpoints, etc. 

 

Participation:

Occasionally, you will complete a report/quiz in Brightspace that may include three things. 1) The time you spent studying. 2) Specific questions you would like the instructor to address. 3) A preparation quiz. In addition you will be required to participate during Group meetings (e.g., ask questions, provide responses, add to discussion, work on assignments, etc.).

 

Group Work:

Each week you will meet with your group, using Zoom, two times. These meetings will be recorded and submitted and assignments will be given that should be completed with the group during that time.

 

Getting Help:

The best way to be prepared is to do the homework and/or preparation assignment. Math is something you learn by doing, so it is critical to do the homework. You won't know what you understand and where you need to improve until you step out in faith and try the problems. The following strategies are recommended for obtaining math assistance. Review all materials and resources provided for the course. Take advantage of your study group during group meetings. Get together regularly to do homework and discuss material for the class. Visit your instructor during office hours. Visit your Teaching Assistant during office hours.

 

Honor Code:

All students are expected to adhere to the honor code, including dress and grooming standards. Please follow appropriate boundaries by ensuring that all work you submit is your own and is submitted in your own words.

 

Students with Disabilities:

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), all qualified students are entitled to “reasonable accommodations”. It is the student’s responsibility to disclose to the instructor any special need he/she has before the end of the first week of classes. If you have any disability that may impair your ability to complete this course successfully, please contact the Services for Students with Disabilities Office, 496-9210. Services are coordinated with the student and the instructor through this office.

 

Discrimination:

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits sexual discrimination against any participant in an educational program. Title IX covers student-to-student sexual harassment. If you encounter unlawful sexual harassment or gender-based discrimination, please contact the Personnel Office, 496-9200.

Disclaimer:

This syllabus and the class schedule may be altered at the discretion of the instructor at any time and any changes will be reviewed in class.