Math 115: College Algebra, Fall 2009

Reading and Homework Assignments

Week 1

HOMEWORK #1: Due Tuesday, September 8th:

Reading Assignment:

Read:          * Course syllabus

* Textbook: A Letter to the Student, p.x

                   * Some suggestions for reading a math textbook: http://home.sandiego.edu/~pmyers/textbook.html

                   * Homework Guidelines: http://home.sandiego.edu/~pmyers/homeworkguide.htm

                   * Read pages 1-4 in the book (you can pick up the book this weekend).

Reading Questions:

1.     Write comments you have on the readings for today (syllabus, textbook letter, reading suggestions, homework guidelines).

2.     Please write a "mathematical biography:" Tell me those experiences (positive and negative) from previous math courses that have had an influence on your present confidence in doing mathematics, your liking of mathematics, and your attitudes toward or beliefs about mathematics. Include some goals you have for your mathematical growth: What would you like to accomplish this year?  What are some mathematical abilities you would like to have?  What are your expectations for this course?

 

Homework Assignment:

          With your group from class (turn in one per group),

1) Create a number trick similar to the number trick described in class.  Explain why the trick works using words, numbers, pictures and algebra.

          2) Be ready to present your trick in class and explain why it works.

HOMEWORK #2: Due Thursday, September 10th:

Homework is due on my desk before class begins.

Reading Assignment:

Read:          * Read Chapter 1 in the book to remind yourself of some of the basic ideas.  Pay special attention to the four different representations used: verbal, graphical, numerical and algebraic.

Reading Questions:

1.     Show two different graphical representations for each of the following quantities: 3+4, 5-2, 3*4, 12/3, 4^2, 4^3, x+y, x-y, xy, x^2, x^3 (assume x and y are whole numbers).

2.     Explain why division by 0 is undefined.

3.     Write comments you have on the readings for today.

 

Homework Assignment:

·     Write your first pen-pal letter as discussed in class.

·     Please write on the top right-hand of your homework how long you spent on this homework—writing your pen-pal letter, reading and solving problems.

·     Complete the following exercises:

p.3, #3.

p.10, #18,19,20,21,22.

p.15, #18,19,20,21,24.

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