Math 154 Syllabus

This class, although preparatory for any student pursuing calculus based fields of study, will provide students with a further understanding of college level mathematics. The concepts introduced in this class will be explored in more detail later during your mathematical career. Some of the concepts introduced in this class require memorization. Keep in mind, mathematics at this level requires remembering METHOD not formulas. The right method is worth more than the right answer.

Text: Lewis Hirsch & Arthur Goodman, Understanding Algebra for College Students, West Publishing Company, 1994

Instructor: Mark Lilly Phone Numbers: H:530-541-8250, VM: 541-4660 ex: 401

Final Examination: ______________________________________

Grades: (weighted average system)

Assignments (Daily). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15.0%

Quizzes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15.0%

Exams (3 of them) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45.0%

Final Exam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25.0%

The following grades are guaranteed: A: 90.0%--100.0% B:80.0%--89.9% C:70.0%--79.9%

D: 60.0%--69.9% F: 0.0%--59.9%

POLICIES:

Grading: At the end of the term, each student will receive a numerical score which is an indication of their performance in the class. These scores will be sorted highest to lowest and natural ‘breaks’ will determine grades A through F, with the above scale used as a guideline. Specific grades will be determined by orientation in the array and a homework score of 90.0% or better.

Assignments: All assignments will receive one of the following marks, either a check plus (10 points), a check (8 points), or a check minus (6 points). Marks will be determined by content and completeness of assignment. Assignments will be accepted late, but a penalty of one mark will be assessed. Show solutions to problems in the assigned order, on 8 1/2 x 11 paper, neatly done, with answer clearly identified. Fold papers together lengthwise, with name and assignment number on outside. It is usually necessary to use scratch paper when doing homework. Do not hand in scratch paper, but make sure to show sufficient work towards answer. Hand in only neatly written solutions, or your best attempts at solutions. Partial credit will be given for progress towards solutions. Homework will not be accepted on the last two days of class.

Bring to the instructor’s attention any problems, mistakes, or misunderstandings concerning your papers promptly. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE END OF THE TERM !!

Quizzes and exams: A quiz will be given on the last class of the week and may be in class or take-home. The lowest quiz score will be dropped. Quizzes may not be taken early. Quizzes will be scrutinized more so than the homework. Exams (each worth 100 points) must be taken on the scheduled date and may not be taken late, unless the instructor is notified before the exam date. The final exam (worth 200 points) is excluded, it must be taken on the date and time scheduled. Extra credit in this class is sometimes offered and will usually count as a quiz score (as a potential dropped quiz score).

FAILURE TO TAKE THE FINAL EXAM OR ANY OF THE THREE TESTS WILL RESULT IN AN F GRADE FOR THE COURSE.

Unless otherwise instructed, all tests will be ‘closed book,’ no notes, no book. Use of a calculator may or may not be permitted, depending on the content of the material.

The Mathematics Department is committed to equal opportunity in education for all students, including those with documented physical disabilities or documented learning disabilities. It is the responsibility of students with documented disabilities to contact instructors during the first week of each quarter to discuss appropriate accommodations to ensure equity in grading, classroom experiences, and outside assignments. The instructor will meet with the student and staff members of the Disabled Student Services Center(DSS) to formulate a written plan for appropriate accommodations, if required.