Math 376L --- Math Lab for Pre-algebra
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Catalog Description
Instructional support for students in Pre-algebra (Math 376), given in a self-paced lab environment. Students receive one-on-one and small-group instruction designed to enhance success in Math 376. Course-specific work will be assigned.
Special notes or advisories: Students should be enrolled in Math 376.
Prerequisites
None
Describe representative skills without which the student would be highly unlikely to succeed:
None
Course Learning Outcomes
What should the student be able to do as a result of taking this course? State some of the objectives in terms of specific, measurable student accomplishments.
- Read, write, and speak accurately about mathematical ideas and use correct mathematical notation.
- Use technology to explore mathematical concepts and verify work. In particular, use computer-based assessment tools to gauge progress in mathematical topics currently under investigation in Math 372.
- Use numerical, graphical, symbolic, and verbal representations to solve problems and communicate mathematics.
- Perform symbolic manipulations and understand the use of variables
Course Content
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Themes: What themes, if any, are threaded throughout the learning experiences in this course?
- Problem-solving.
- Writing mathematics.
- Technology.
- Communication.
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Concepts: What concepts do students need to understand to demonstrate course outcomes?
- The use of technology as a fundamental problem-solving tool.
- The presentation of mathematical solutions in a logical coherent structure, including the use of fundamental writing skills, grammar, and punctuation.
- The use of a systematic, step-wise problem solving process.
- The recognition that proper symbolic manipulation is an important tool in multiple problem-solving situations
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Issues: What primary issues or problems, if any, must students understand to achieve course outcomes.
- The appropriate use of technology in the problem-solving process.
- The connection between mathematics and the real world.
- The role of the student in becoming a successful learner.
- The recognition that the problem-solving skills learned in mathematics classes are applicable to related fields.
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Skills: What skills must students master to demonstrate course outcomes?
- Assess the plausibility of a solution to specific types of problems.
- Anticipate potential and predictable errors in homework and other assignments.
- Synthesize numerical, graphical, and symbolic solutions to mathematics problems.
- Compare different algorithmic methods for their effectiveness and efficiency in solving problems.
- Solve specific mathematics problems by using textbooks from current mathematics courses.
- Solve specific mathematics problems by following examples from supplemental materials, such as self-paced workbooks, handouts, computer tutorials, and calculator manuals.
- Solve specific mathematics problems by seeking instructor guidance as necessary.
- Use the Language of Algebra to solve equations.
- Integers
- Add, subtract, multiply and divide
- Use exponents
- Use order of operations
- Estimate
Representative Learning Activities
What will the students be doing (i.e., Listening to lectures, participating in discussions and/or group activities, attending a field trip, etc.)? Relate the activities directly to the Course Learning Outcomes.
- Participating in tutorials with instructor and peers.
- Working independently to improve math skills and study skills.
- Assessing math weaknesses and working to find remedies for them.
- Completing computer based assignments.
Assessment Tasks
How will the student show evidence of achieving the Course Learning Outcomes? Indicate which assessments (if any) are required for all sections.
- Representative assessment tasks:
-
- Required assessments for all sections - to include but not limited to:
-
- Completion of course-specific online assignments.
Examples of Appropriate Texts or Other Readings
- Author: Tussy and Gustafson; Title: Prealgebra; Date: 2006
- OPTIMATH online software guide.