Designed for students who need to review and strengthen basic algebra concepts. Includes topics such signed expressions, linear equations and problem solving. Does not satisfy any graduation requirements. Upon recommendation of the instructor, this course may be repeated for additional credit.
None
Textbooks and Software and Other Materials
Required: Aufmann, Beginning Algebra with Applications, 7th ed. Houghton Mifflin.
While a graphing calculator is recommended, and there are a few problems which suggest using a graphic calculator, one is not required for this course. Since you will need one for future algebra classes, you may wish to purchase one now. (The TI-83 or TI-83+ is highly recommended. If you choose not to use a TI-83, choose a calculator, which allows you to see your work and make changes very easily. I was told recently that the TI-83 is being replaced by the TI-84, which is basically the same. Maybe they will have some "deals" on the 83s)
Contact Coleen at the NDSCS Bookstore for the most current textbook information (1-800-342-4325, ext 2239 or coleen.thoe@ndscs.nodak.edu). You may also visit the Bookstore web site at http://www.ndscsbooks.com/ and search for book information by class by clicking the "Textbook" tab.
Software: Microsoft Word is needed for all online classes. If additional software is needed for a particular course, it will be indicated in the online course schedule.
Email: Students taking online classes from NDSCS also need a working email account. Be sure email address is updated in student record in PeopleSoft system.
Internet Access required. High speed Internet service is highly recommended. If students are unable to get high speed service, an alternate site may be needed to view some of the course components.
The following list of goals will be addressed in this course. These goals are directly related to the performance objectives.
1. Recall basic arithmetic procedures.
2. Define basic algebra properties.
3. Evaluate and simplify variable expressions.
4. Translate verbal expressions into variable expressions.
5. Solve variable expressions using addition.
6. Solve variable expressions using multiplication.
7. Solve variable expressions using the Distributive Property.
8. Plot points on rectangular coordinate system.
9. Graph straight lines on paper and on graphing calculator (TI-83).
10. Determine slopes of straight lines.
11. Define functions.
12. Factor algebraic expressions.
13. Outline procedures for formulating and displaying a problem.
14. Demonstrate a methodology and strategy for problem solving.
15. Apply knowledge of algebra to solve real world problems.
16. Write solutions in an organized, orderly, clear, and precise manner.
Grading
On-line exams are utilized to assess both your progress and whether you have met the course objectives.
The Quizzes carry more weight per item than the Exercises.
New sections are assigned daily, except for a few "extra" days, when you will be given the chance to catch up or do some extra practice. These will usually occur when a topic is more difficult or especially important.
All lessons will be listed by the week; they are ALL due the following Monday. Assignments handed in after Monday will lose 10% per week unless you have prior approval from the instructor. You are STRONGLY encouraged to do a section each day if at all possible. Most new concepts build on the section before. You may have questions or may have misunderstood a new concept and could complete several sections incorrectly if the instructor has not seen any of your work for the week until Sunday night. It is VERY important for the student and the instructor to touch base on a daily basis or every other day at the very least.
The REVIEW for tests will not be graded by the instructor; all of the answers are in the text. The student must understand that the review is for them.
A Chapter Test will be given at the end of each chapter. The Tests must be taken with the proctor present. Texts and/or notes are NOT allowed for a chapter test or for the final.
Grading Scale
S = 70% or above
U = Below 70%
Point Distribution |
Points Possible |
Exercises (1 point for each problem, 2 when work required) |
925 |
Quizzes (four pts for each answer) |
696 |
Chapter Tests |
100 each, 600 total |
Final |
200 |
Total |
2421 |
Remember, to receive full credit, the assignments for the week are due by the following Monday at the latest. Turning in material on a daily basis is highly recommended.
Tests will be available only on the assigned day unless other arrangements have been made with the instructor.
Students should estimate approximately three hours of course work per credit per week for NDSCS classes. For example, a three-credit class may require approximately nine hours of work time a week for the student. This amount may vary by class and by student.
Policies and Procedures
NDSCS online students should be aware of various policies and procedures such as those listed below.
Attendance - Students are expected to log into their online classes frequently during each week of the semester and to submit course work on time to meet due dates set by the instructors. Attendance and class participation is monitored and students not submitting work in their online classes may be dropped from the class. Review the Attendance Policy for further details.
Computer Access - It is the student's responsibility to maintain access to a working computer and Internet connection to keep up in online class assignments. Because computer problems do occur, students should have a plan for alternative computer access in case of computer problems. Students will be able to access their online classes from any computer with an Internet connection.
Refund Policy/Withdrawal Refund Schedule
Academic Calendar - Online classes follow the same calendar as regular on-campus classes. They begin with the semester begins and students do not need to log in at specific days/times but instructors do set due dates for assignments and exams to be submitted so there is structure to the classes. Online classes are not self-paced but do provide flexibility in that they are accessible 24/7 to allow students to work around other commitments when doing their course work.
Academic Integrity - Integrity is an NDSCS core value and there is an expectation that all students, as members of the college community, adhere to the highest levels of academic integrity.
Dishonesty in class, laboratory, shop work or tests is regarded as a serious offense and is subject to disciplinary action by the instructor and dean of the respective division. For more information, refer to the NDSCS Student Planner or College Catalog under College Policies and Basic Regulations of Conduct.
Types of Misconduct
Disabilities and Special Needs
If you have a disability for which you are or may be requesting an accommodation, you are encouraged to contact both your instructor and the Disability Support Services Office, 225 Mildred Johnson Library (phone 701-671-2623, 800-342-4325, ext 32623) as early as possible in the term.
Other College Policies can be found in the Catalog.
Student-Instructor Communications
While an online class is available 24 hours a day and offers greater flexibility for the student and instructor, keep in mind that your instructor will not be available 24 hours a day. I will check my email, voicemail, and Cyber Office messages on a regular basis, but there may be times when I am unavailable due to other commitments and job responsibilities. I will respond to email, voicemail, or Cyber Office messages as time allows. As a general rule, you can expect your direct question to be answered within 24 hours during week days.
When sending an email, please include your full name so I know to whom I'm responding. Often, the email address does not indicate who is sending the message.
Exams are done online. Instructors may require a proctor be present for online exams. When the semester begins, check your course information for the proctor form and proctor criteria.
Online classes follow the same academic calendar for start and end dates as regular on-campus classes. While there is no set time for students to be logged into a class each day, instructors do set due dates for assignments and exams. Students should lot into classes frequently to keep up with announcements and to keep up with course work. Online classes are not self-paced.
You may want to print the NDSCS Academic Calendar reference during the year. It includes semester start and end dates, final days to add/drop classes for each semester, vacation dates, etc.
Instructors may vary from semester to semester.
