INSTRUCTOR INFORMATION
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Class Time

TEXTBOOK
Algebra: Introductory and Intermediate, 3rd edition. Richard N. Aufmann, Vernon C. Barker, & Joanne S. Lockwood. Houghton Mifflin, 2004

COURSE DESCRIPTION
This is the first of four sequential seven week courses designed to supply you with the algebraic skills and concepts needed to study college-level mathematics. Each course is called a module and each module acts as a prerequisite for the next one. In this module, you will learn how to perform integer operations without the use of a calculator, how to translate problems into mathematical equations, and how to solve equations and inequalities. You must successfully complete this module before moving into Algebra Mod 2: Linear Behavior.

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

Upon completing this course, the student will be able to:

·        Identify subsets of real numbers and order them according to set inclusion.

·`   Perform the four arithmetic operations on signed numbers without the use of a calculator.

·        Use algebraic expressions as symbolic representations of real numbers and operations.

·        Solve linear equations and inequalities.

·        Solve absolute value equations and inequalities.

·        Translate spoken and written language into mathematical symbolism for the purpose of solving proble

CALCULATORS
You are not required to purchase a calculator for this course. There may be times when your instructor will allow you to use a calculator. However, you are responsible for being able to perform basic algebraic skills without the aid of a calculator. CALCULATORS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO BE USED ON THE FINAL EXAM. If you are a documented LD student the following applies Calculator use for LD Students

ATTENDANCE POLICY
Students are expected to attend all classes. Attendance will be taken every day and may also be taken into consideration when calculating final grades. If a student misses more than 1/5 of the course, the student may be administratively withdrawn from the course without prior notice or refund.

COURSE ORGANIZATION
This course meets four class sessions per week. Two sessions are set aside for lecture and two sessions for lab work. The material to be covered in the lecture portion and the associated homework assignments are arranged on a week-by-week basis.

GRADING SYSTEM / METHOD OF EVALUATION
Student grades are based on successful completion of homework, quizzes, lab work, and tests. There will be a comprehensive departmental final examination at the end of the seven weeks. The final exam time will be announced.

Your final grade will be calculated as follows:
90% - 100%= A
80% - 89% = B
70% - 79% = C
Below 70% = F
D grades are not given in this course.

Students will earn points on successful completion of:

1. Tests 40% at least
2. Comprehensive final exam 30% at least
3. Lab work,  projects and additional requirements 15% at least
4. Specific percentages will be provided by your instructor

STUDENTS WITH DOCUMENTED LEARNING DISABILITIES
If you have a documented learning disability, you should notify Kathy Doyle, the RVCC Learning Disabilities Consultant. She will determine if you need special accommodations to be successful in this course.

VIOLATIONS OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY
Violations of academic integrity of any type will not be condoned. This includes giving/receiving help on tests, using calculators on tests, and copying another student's work. Violators will be reported to the Dean of Academic and Student Services.

GETTING HELP
If you experience difficulties at anytime during the course, there are many ways of getting help.

1. Your textbook and its computer work supplements. Aside from the supplements, there are videotapes corresponding to the topics in the text. These videotapes may be viewed in the Math Lab or Media Center. The videotapes cannot be removed from the Math Lab or Media Center, but there is no viewing time limit.
2. Office Hours. The purpose of these office hours is to provide time for the instructor to help and interact with all of her/his students. If the office hours are not convenient for you, see your instructor to set up an appointment.
3. The Math Lab. RVCC provides its students with mathematics tutors, free of charge, in the Math Lab located in Room S-20 in the basement of the South Building. Tutoring at the Math Lab generally begins in the second week of classes. When you go to the Math Lab, make sure you sign in at the front counter. Tutors will be at the front counter and also working at the tables. Also available by request at the front counter are supplements for your textbook. The telephone number for the Math Lab is 908-526-1200 Ext. 8393. Hours of operation for Math Lab will be posted each semester on its double glass doors and another schedule will be posted for final exam week.
4. A study group. Students can form study groups to motivate themselves and each other. Study groups can work on homework or study for tests and quizzes.
5. Testing Skills and Math Anxiety Workshops. The RVCC Counseling Center offers workshops on many topics and concerns, including test-taking skills, math anxiety, time management, stress management. The schedules and locations of these workshops can be obtained from the Counseling Center.
6. Private tutoring. Appointments with private tutors can be made in the Math Lab with a prescription from your instructor.

MANAGE YOUR TIME
This course will help you to prepare for college-level mathematics and mathematics-related courses. In order to develop your skills properly and to thoroughly understand the concepts, you may need to put in at least two hours of study time for every hour spent in class.

WHAT IS NEXT?
This course prepares you to continue your study of algebra in Algebra Mod 2: Linear Behavior.

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