LAMC Spring 2008 Instructor: L. Foster
Section #3080 Office
Hrs: MW
MW 5:25- 6:50 PM Crucial
Messages: 818-364–7703
Bungalow 3 Email: fosterll@lamc.edu
Math 215: Principles of Mathematics I
Prerequisites: Math 125: Intermediate Algebra And
Math
121: Essentials of Plane Geometry (or equivalent).
Texts: Billstein,
Libeskind, & Lott: A
Problem Solving Approach to
Mathematics for
Elementary School Teachers, Ninth Edition
Handouts
Packet 2006 (at bookstore)
Other Necessities: Scientific calculator and a documented Mathematics teaching aid
or game (possible resources: the
internet or educational bookstores).
Distractions: In order to encourage/promote a positive
learning environment: only assistive
electronic devices are permitted. All
others must be turned off and put away.
Topics: Ch 1 Tools for
Problem-Solving Ch
4 Integers & Number Theory
Ch
2 Sets, Whole Numbers & Functions
Ch 5 Rational Numbers as Fractions
Ch
3 Numeration Systems Ch 6 Decimals, Percents, & Real Numbers
Learning
Outcomes: Upon
completion of this course, the student will be able to:
1) Define sets using different methods and
evaluate set operations.
2) Create functions based on patterns and
perform operations with functions.
3) Convert numbers into different numeration
systems, such as Mayan,
Roman, Babylonian, and Egyptian.
4) Demonstrate more than one algorithm for
Arithmetical Operations.
5) Solve and demonstrate concepts of Number
Theory such as prime numbers,
Divisibility, GCF’s and LCM’s.
6) Express Rational numbers, percents and
decimals as fractions.
Requirements: Six Exams 60%
Final 25%
Homework/Quizzes/Group/Presentation 15%
Grades: A 90–100 B
80–89 C 70–79 D 60–69
Exam and Due Dates
(excluding quizzes):
First Exam: February
20 Fourth
Exam: April 9
Second Exam: March
5 Fifth
Exam: April 23
Third Exam: March
19 Sixth
Exam: May 14
Final Exam: (Note:
different time) May 28 @
Other
Important Dates for Semester:
Last Date to Drop w/o W: March
3
Last Date to Drop with a W: May
5
Final Note: This is a
mathematics course!! Every student
starts with an “A”! In order to keep
that “A” you need to do the homework, attend class regularly, and take notes
carefully. What looks easy on the board
may not be so easy at home (without good notes). Your questions are not only welcome, they are
strongly encouraged. Consider this: whenever you ask a question you do so on behalf of a number of students who also would like to
know the answer! Please take advantage
of the free tutoring and textbook video services provided in the Learning
Assistance Center and Math Center on campus—definitely a privilege! Furthermore, the computer disc included with
your textbook has been extremely helpful with comprehension and grades! Remember that College Policy is that a
student can be dropped after missing three classes BUT it is your
responsibility to drop the course if something unforeseen occurs. Homework will only be accepted promptly at
the first of class. Make-up exams and
quizzes will not be given, so make
arrangements to attend regularly now!