Course: Math 095.05 - Intermediate Algebra - 4 Credit Hours -
Fall 2009
Meeting Time: 10:00am-11:40am
Meeting Place: Room 3290
Instructor: Steve Kifowit,
skifowit@prairiestate.edu,
Rm 2305, Ph. (708) 709-3954
Office Hours: MW 3:30pm-5:00pm, TTh 1:30pm-2:30pm, or by appointment
Text: Elementary and Intermediate Algebra, 3rd Edition; Allen R. Angel
Course Description: This is a course in intermediate algebra. It is a prerequisite for transferable college mathematics courses. Topics covered include functions and graphs, systems of linear equations, one- and two-variable inequalities, roots and radicals, complex numbers, and quadratic functions. Emphasis is placed on the development of algebraic skills.
Course Prerequisite: Math 090 with at least a “C” or a qualifying score on the math placement test
Course Goals/Objectives:
1.) Apply
various techniques to solve linear,
quadratic, absolute value, rational, and radical equations and
inequalities.
2.) Solve
application problems involving the types
of equations mentioned above.
3.) Perform
basic operations on radical expressions
and expressions involving rational exponents.
4.) Perform
operations on complex numbers.
5.) Solve
and graph systems of linear equations and
inequalities.
6.) Define,
graph, and use linear and quadratic
functions.
Attendance Policy: Regular class attendance is an
essential component of successful learning. Students are
responsible for prompt attendance and participation in all class
meetings. If you miss class, you will not be allowed to make up
any tests, quizzes, or assignments that you may have missed. All
material covered in class is the student's responsibility.
A --- 89% and above
B --- 78% - 88%
C --- 67% - 77%
D --- 56% - 66%
F --- below 56%
You may estimate your current grade at any time during the semester by computing the following percentage: 100% * ( Total points accumulated ) / ( Total points possible ). Please feel free to discuss your grade with me at any time during the semester.
Homework: Homework problems will be assigned on a daily basis. Your work will not normally be collected, but we will often discuss homework problems in class. Keep up to date on your homework! Homework problems often show up on tests and quizzes.
Quizzes: There will be a 5-problem, multiple-choice, in-class quiz the week before each test. No make-up quizzes will be given. Your lowest quiz score will be dropped at the end of the semester.
Tests/Exams: Test problems will be similar to class examples, quiz problems, and homework problems. Tests will consist mostly of multiple-choice problems, but partial credit may be awarded for correct work. Tests will be cumulative---anything we've done at any time during the semester is fair game on each test. You must work individually on all tests. No make-up tests will be given. At the end of the semester, your lowest test score will be replaced by one-half of your final exam score (if this helps you).
Final Exam: The final exam is tentatively scheduled for Monday, Dec 14, from 1pm to 2:50pm. The final exam is comprehensive and will be worth 100 points toward your final grade.
Calculators: A scientific calculator is required for this course. The TI-83 Graphing Calculator or the TI-30XS MultiView are the recommended calculators.
Misc. information: