Math 105 is not a pre-calculus class! Math 105 is a review of math that you did in high school. Almost all of the math in this class will be things you have seen before: basic algebra, geometry, and even arithmetic. The purpose of the course is to practice your skills, fill gaps, and build comfort with the material.
I will post all homework assignments on the schedule below. Each homework is due in class the following week.
| Week | Date | Topic | Homework |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Aug 29 | The rules of Algebra. Factors vs. terms | HW1 |
| 2 | Sep 5 | Distribution: mixing factors & terms | HW2 |
| 3 | Sep 12 | Exponents and radicals | HW3 |
| 4 | Sep 19 | Linear equations & equations | HW4 |
| 5 | Sep 26 | Rates, ratios, & proportions | HW5 |
| 6 | Oct 3 | Inequalities and absolute values | HW6 |
| 7 | Oct 10 | Quadratic polynomials | HW7 |
| 8 | Oct 17 | Polynomial and rational equations | HW8 |
| 9 | Oct 24 | Functions and function notation | HW9 |
| 10 | Oct 31 | Constructing new functions | HW10 |
| 11 | Nov 7 | Logarithms and exponential functions | HW11 |
| 12 | Nov 14 | Trig functions | |
| 13 | Nov 28 | Review | |
| 14 | Dec 5 | Recap |
Attendance in this class is required. Repeated absences may result in a forced withdrawal from the course. If you arrive late to class more than once, that will also count as an absence. Keep in mind, we only have 14 classes the whole semester, so missing more than one class is a big deal. You are responsible for any material you miss due to absence. Please let me know ahead of time if you know that you will not be able to attend a class.
The term grade will be based the following factors.
| Component | Proportion |
|---|---|
| Homework | 70% |
| Presentations | 10% |
| Final | 20% |
You learn math by doing math. This class will have weekly homework assignments. You must complete the homework before class each week, and be ready to discuss your solutions. If you cannot avoid missing class, let me know ahead of time and we will work out a way to get the homework submitted on time. I will accept late homework, but only for half credit, and I will also drop your lowest homework grade.
We will begin each class period with presentations of homework solutions. You will be asked to present your solutions several times during the semester. As long as you are present and have a solution to present, you get full credit. Your solutions do not need to be correct.
There will be a final exam for this course.
In compliance with the Hampden-Sydney College policy and equal access laws, I am available to discuss appropriate academic accommodations that may be recommended for students with disabilities. Requests for academic accommodations are to be made at the beginning of the semester (except for unusual circumstances) so that appropriate arrangements can be made. Students are required to contact the Office of Academic Success in order to verify their eligibility for appropriate accommodations.