SYLLABUS

COURSE:		MA 098 Basic College Mathematics
PREREQUISITE:	High School Mathematics
TEXT:			Bittinger, Marvin L. / Beecher, Judith A.
			DEVELOPMENTAL MATHEMATICS – 
College Mathematics and Introductory Algebra  (7th Edition)
Pearson Education (Addison/Wesley), 2008, ISBN: 0321331915
INSTRUCTOR:		Br. DuWayne Brisendine, S.M.
TIME/PLACE:		MWF  10:00 – 10:50 / CS 120
AVAILABILITY:		cf. Instructor’s Schedule

Course Description:  Math 98 is designed to improve basic mathematic skills and provide an introduction to algebra while preparing students for MA 100 or MA 103. Topics include: Whole Numbers, Fractions, Decimals, Percents, Statistics, Geometry and an introduction to Algebra. The course will focus on computation as well as on problem solving strategies.

Learning Outcomes:  The objective of the course is to provide the beginning student with the mathematic skills necessary to continue in the study of algebra and related areas. After successfully completing this course the student should be well prepared to continue on to take the next level math class at Chaminade.

Schedule of Events:  The instructor has a tentative schedule of events outlining what sections and/or activities will be covered daily. Because he is interested in gearing the activities to suit the progress of the class, he will not publish a schedule to be distributed to the class. However, should you be interested in specifics, you are invited to confer with the instructor.

Presuppositions:
(1)	If given the opportunity (leave your mathematical prejudices at the door – you can pick them up later), I believe that I have the necessary knowledge, expertise and experience to assist you to sufficiently learn the topics of this course in order to move on successfully to the next.
(2)	I cannot teach you if you are not in class. Absence from or distraction during class only leave gaping holes in your study of mathematics which only further create major problems in learning it. Roll will be taken each class period and if you have not responded at that time, it becomes your responsibility to inform me of your tardiness at the end of the class. Six (6) unexcused absences qualifies you for a failing grade!
(3)	While the study of mathematics requires time for reflection and conviction, I know of no other method to learn it than by actually doing it. It will be a rare class in which an assignment(s) are not given to be due for the next class meeting. A record of these will be kept and assignments will NOT be accepted more than one class period late.

(OVER)

(4)	You will become aware probably long before I do as to when you begin to fall behind or find that some concept isn’t being understood. PLEASE do yourself, and me, the favor of contacting me at that point. It will only increase my esteem of you and you will only increase the esteem in yourself. Waiting NEVER solves the problem; it only leads to frustration, discouragement and eventual failure. Running to a tutor should NOT be your first recourse. I am your teacher; make me do my job! If I believe that tutoring is what you need, I will be happy to recommend such.
(5)	Concern for one another:  Food and drinks in the classroom are not acceptable student etiquette. There is plenty of time before and after class to take care of bodily functions. If you should have bladder or intestinal problems, it would be a question of etiquette to inform me before class of the potential problem. Mathematically, we do not all come into this class with the same background or abilities. A laugh, a sneer, a biting remark is never helpful; a kind remark and a helping hand might change someone forever!
(6)	Review University-wide policies as summarized in your Student Handbook, especially regarding Attendance and Classroom Deportment.
(7)	I am NOT recommending calculators, computers, electrical or battery powered devices for this class. Until you have a clear understanding of a mathematical concept, they can be a great source of distraction and frustration. Also, PLEASE turn off all cell phones and such devices when you come into the classroom.

Grading:   Your final grade in this course will be dependent on three factors:  Tests and quizzes (60%), Assignments (15%), and the Final Exam (25%).

The Grade Scale is as follows:
		90% +			=	A  (excellent)
		80-89%		=	B  (good)
		70-79%		=	C  (average)
		60-69%		=	D  (below average)
		59% and lower	=	F  (unacceptable)

An AVERAGE student will spend 2 hours preparing outside the classroom for every class hour!

[[  e.g.  If you are taking 12 hours of classes and you would be happy to be a C student, you would be expected to spend at least 24 hours of preparation outside of those classes. That is, you must schedule at least 36 hours per week into your schedule for your PRIMARY job!  ]]

DATES to remember:
	Aug. 25 – Sept. 2	Add/Drop Period
	Sept. 1			Labor Day – Free
	Oct. 13			Discoverers’ Day – Free
	Nov. 7			Deadline for Withdrawals
	Nov. 27 – 28		Thanksgiving Recess

FINAL EXAM – Thursday, Dec. 11, 10:30-12:30  (NO early Exams; NO make-up Exams)