Fundamentals of Algebra
Course Description: A review of basic algebra and
arithmetic, including algebra of
polynomials, factorization of simple polynomials, arithmetic operations on
fractions and rational
expressions, laws of exponents, linear equations and inequalities in one
variable, quadratic
equations using factoring. Pass/fail grading only. Does not count toward
BA or BS degree.
Mathematics Learning Center (MLC): Located in ENG 136, the MLC is a
wonderful (and
free) resource. The center provides walk-in tutoring, along with other services,
for all UCCS
students. PLEASE SIGN IN.
Grading Policy:
| Homework/Quizzes |  |
| Exam 1 | |
| Exam 2 | |
| Final Exam |
In this course, you will be graded on a pass/fail basis.
You must get at least a 80% in the
course in order to guarantee a passing grade.
Homework: Homework will be assigned at the end of each class period and
will usually be
collected the following Tuesday. Late homework will not be accepted for any
reason. Each
assignment must be organized, legible and stapled for full credit. I will drop
your two lowest
homework scores from your final grade.
Prerequisites: Although this course has no required prerequisites, you
should already know
some algebra. This is a refresher course, and will be nothing more than that. If
you have any
questions about this, or would like to discuss courses that will teach you these
algebra skills,
please contact me immediately.
Quizzes: Quizzes will be given randomly and will not always be announced.
NO MAKE-UP
QUIZZES WILL BE GIVEN FOR ANY REASON. If a student misses a quiz, he/she will
receive a
zero for that quiz; however, I will drop the lowest quiz score from your final
grade.
Tests: Two 75-minute exams and a comprehensive final exam will be given.
Tests should be
taken in pencil and NO CALCULATORS (or any electronic devices) WILL BE ALLOWED
ON ANY
EXAMS. NO MAKE-UP EXAMS WILL BE GIVEN. Every student must take the Final Exam at
the
designated time and date – no exceptions.
Calculators: NO CALCULATORS of any kind will be allowed on any quizzes or
exams. I
encourage you to avoid them on your homework and worksheets as well.
Problem-Solving Sessions: The last hour of each
class period will be dedicated to problem-
solving sessions, allowing students to practice the topics discussed in class.
While these
sessions are not required, they are strongly recommended.
Dropping Policy: Any student should seek counseling from the Dean’s
office before dropping
any course.
Disability statement: Students with disabilities should provide their
letters of certification
and accommodation within the first two weeks of class. To contact the
Disabilities Office, call
255-3354.
Military Students: If you are expecting to be called for military duty
during the course of the
semester, please notify me as soon as possible.
Some other thoughts: In order for you to succeed in this class, I
strongly recommend
coming to class, taking notes, reading your book, doing (and understanding) your
homework,
and seeking help from the many support services that exist. I also encourage you
to
communicate with me, your instructor. If, for some reason, you are unable to
perform some of
these tasks (coming to class, doing homework, etc.) please discuss the situation
with me. If
you do not keep me informed, I cannot help you. It is your responsibility.
Note: The information and policies contained in this syllabus may be changed at
any time by
the instructor. Any changes will be announced in class.
Syllabus:
1. Fractions and Mixed Numbers
2. Negative numbers (Unit 1)
3. Order of operations (Unit 1)
4. Simplifying algebraic expressions (Unit 2)
5. Linear Equations (Unit 3)
6. Applications (Unit 6)
7. Exponents (Units 7-9)
8. Adding, Subtracting and Multiplying Polynomials (Unit 16)
9. Factoring Polynomials (Units 18-20)
10. Quadratic Equations (Unit 21) - optional
11. Simplifying Rational Expressions
12. Complex Fractions
13. Rational equations
14. Radicals (Unit 12)
15. Rational exponents (Unit 13)
16. Rationalizing Denominators
“If by chance I have omitted anything more or less proper
or necessary, I beg
forgiveness, since there is no one who is without fault and circumspect in all
matters.”
-Leonardo Fibonacci
