College Algebra -- McGrath

College Algebra -- Math 115 -- Fall 2005

Class Meeting Time: Section 2 - MWF 11:15-12:10 Serra Hall 314

Instructor: Dr. Lynn McGrath					Office: Serra Hall 171 D
Email: lmcgrath@sandiego.edu					Phone: 619-260-7955

Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday 2:30-3:00, Tues. 9:00-12:30 and by appointment (to set up an appointment you must email me your request).
Required Text: College Algebra, M. Richardson.
Course Web Site: http://www.sandiego.edu/~lmcgrath/COURSES/mth115.html
Weekly Homework Sets

Prerequisites for the Course:
To take Math 115 at USD you must either pass the Level 1 Placement Exam or pass Math 90 at USD with a C-. USD does not accept any kind of transfer credit at the Math 90 level. If you do not meet the prerequisite you will be dropped from the course on September 13, 2005.

The exams this term will be given on:
1) 1:00 pm, Wednesday, August 31, 2005, in Serra 185, levels 1 and 2
2) 2:30 pm, Wednesday, August 31, 2005, in Serra 185, levels 1 and 2
3) 12:10 pm, Thursday, September 1, 2005, in Serra 185, levels 1 and 2
4) 1:10 pm, Thursday, September 1, 2005, in Serra 185, level 1 only
5) 12:10 pm, Tuesday, September 6, 2005, in Serra 185, levels 1 and 2
6) 1:10 pm, Tuesday, September 6, 2005, in Serra 185, level 1 only
7) 12:10 pm, Thursday, September 8, 2005, in Serra 185, levels 1 and 2
8) 1:10 pm, Thursday, September 8, 2005, in Serra 185, level 1 only
9) 12:10 pm, Tuesday, September 13, 2005, in Serra 185, levels 1 and 2
10)1:10 pm, Tuesday, September 13, 2005, in Serra 185, level 1 only

These dates and times, as well as exam policies, practice questions, and a list of answers to frequently asked questions are on the website at http://mathplacement.sandiego.edu/.

Note that a student may only take a particular exam twice in any 1 year period, and may not take the exam more than once in any 7 day period.
Objectives for the Course:
To give you:
1. An appreciation of the natural origin and evolutionary growth of the basic mathematical ideas from antiquity to the present;
2. A critical, logical attitude, a wholesome respect for correct reasoning, precise definitions, and a clear grasp of underlying assumptions;
3. An understanding of the role of mathematics as one of the major branches of human endeavor and its relations with other branches of the accumulated wisdom of the human race;
4. A discussion of some of the simpler important problems of pure mathematics and its applications, including some which often come to the attention of the educated layperson and cause them needless confusion;
5. An understanding of the nature and practical importance of postulational thinking.
Course Expectations
What I expect from you:
1. To attend class regularly- see attendance policy below.
2. To attend office hours when you are having difficulty with the material.
3. To be respectful of all students in the class.
What you can expect from me:
1. Respect and encouragement.
2. I will provide the learning environment and opportunities for you to improve, broaden and deepen your understanding and appreciation of mathematics.
3. I will provide the support necessary for you to succeed in this course, both in and out of class. I am available during my office hours and by appointment, as well as via email.
Attendance Policy
You may miss up to three classes (excused or not) without penalty; after that it affects your grade. Arriving late or leaving early counts as half an absence.
Earning Points

Homework and Weekly Quizzes.....................................................................................25%
Exam 1 ( Friday - September 30th )..................................................................................15%
Exam 2 ( Friday - November 4th ).................................................................................15%
Exam 3 ( Monday - December 5th ).................................................................................15%
Final Exam (Friday - Dec 16th, 11:00 AM)................................................................30%
Homework
Homework will be assigned at the end of each class session. It is due the following class session. All work turned in for a grade must be neatly and clearly written up to receive any credit. No late homework will be accepted under any circumstances.
Quizzes
Weekly quizzes will be given, typically on Fridays. I do not provide makeup quizzes because at the end of the semester I will drop your lowest quiz grade.
Exams
There will be 3 in class exams in the course. The dates are given above.
Cheating
Please be aware of the academic integrity policy of this University. Cheating and plagiarism are serious offenses and will be treated seriously. Although I encourage you to study together, unless specifically designated as a group assignment all work you hand in should be your own.
Accommodations
Any student with a documented disability needing academic adjustments or accommodations is requested to speak with me during the first two weeks of class. All discussions will remain confidential. A student attempting to access Disability Services for the first time should begin by contacting the Director of Disability Services and/or the Learning Disabilities Specialist in Serra Hall, Room 300 (619/260-4655). It is the student's responsibility to schedule an "intake" meeting with the Director as soon as possible.