Text:  Basic Mathematics, Marvin L. Bittinger, or
           Basic Mathematics  , 10th Edition, Marvin L. Bittenger, Addison-Wesley Publishing Co., Inc.

Required: 3x5 index cards (one for each class meeting), notebook for taking notes, pencil(s)

Objective
    The principle objective in our course is to develop an understanding and ability to manipulate basic mathematics--which includes arithmetic operations with the set and subsets of real numbers and their various applications.  We will also explore some introductory concepts in Geometry and Algebra.

    This foundational course serves as an indicator of the success level one may expect in the course that follows, Elementary Algebra.  The level of success in this course is directly related to the amount of commitment you make in time and effort.

Homework
 
The homework assignment for each section we cover will be every other odd problem. Homework is to be completed using MyMathLab, an online computer program.  You will have help with the program if you are not already familiar with it.
Homework is a learning tool, and so credit will not be based on right or wrong answers. The only right thing to do is attempt all problems--this is how we learn. The wrong thing to do is not ask questions when a concept is unclear.

Index Notes
    At the end of each class meeting, we will reserve a few minutes to reflect on what we covered in class that day.  You will address one question on the index card:  "What have I learned today?"  Each day's card must be dated, and contain your full name.  The cards will be used for recording attendance, and it is also a way for me to be made aware of any difficulties or questions you may have.
    No late cards will be accepted--no exceptions, not even if you did attend class but forgot to turn in your card.  It is therefore important for you to remember to turn in your cards before you leave class.

Quizzes
    A short quiz (20 points each) will be given on Wednesday of every week in which there is no exam scheduled.  Quiz problems will be similar to homework problems.  There will be approximately 8 quizzes, of which the three lowest scores will be dropped.  There will be no make-up quizzes--no exceptions.  If you miss a quiz, then you will receive a score of zero for that quiz.

Exams
    There will be 4 exams during the semester (100 pts each), and a final exam (200 pts).  No make-up exams will be given--no exceptions.  Any scheduling conflicts must be resolved before the exam date.
Tentative exam dates:  2/18, 3/11, 4/6, 5/11
Final Exam will be on Wednesday, 5/20, 8:00 – 11:00am

Grading Policy
Homework   100 pts (corresponding to the percentage of completed assignments on MyMathLab)
Quizzes         100 pts  (approximately 5 @ 20 pts each)
Exams           600 pts  (4 @ 100 pts each and a final exam @ 200 pts)
Total             800 pts  (appoximate total possible points)

The final course grade will be based on the percentage of points earned out of the total possible, and on class and homework performance.  Attendance is considered to be part of class performance.

93 - 100%  A      85 - 92%  B      77 - 84%  C      69 - 76%  D      0 - 68%  F

***It is stronly recommended that students attend all classes and do at least all assigned problems.***

Academic dishonesty is not tolerated.  Cheating on any quiz or exam will result in a grade of zero for that quiz or exam.  Talking with another student or with yourself out loud, looking/glancing at another student’s paper, exchanging/sharing papers, use of cell-phones, are all considered to be forms of cheating. 
material in a math class.

Absences:
Absences are strongly discouraged.  A day’s absence will mean a great deal of material missed.  It is usually very difficult to “catch up” on missed material in a math class. Do whatever you can to schedule appointments so that they do not conflict with your class schedule.
            You are responsible for all material covered and assigned during class.  It is unrealistic to expect me to reteach any missed lessons.  If missing class is absolutely unavoidable, then your first step will be to contact a classmate to find out what you missed and/or to make copy of notes taken.  If you have further questions, then you should see me for help or get help in the Math Lab (SC115).

Teacher’s Note:
            My goal as your teacher is to make the math content in our course as accessible to you as possible.  But I cannot do this alone.  You must be willing to be an active participant in this process or little or no learning will result.  Also, the learning is not just between you and me—it takes place in your interaction with each other as well.  Collaboration in learning our course content is encouraged—except on quizzes, exams of course.  You are also encouraged to visit me during office hours or the Math Lab (SC115) if you need help. 
            As long as we put our heads together and stay focused, we can accomplish just about anything to which we set our minds.