Math 115 is intended as preparation for calculus (either Math 140 or Math 220). Topics include equations and inequalities, functions (polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric) and their graphs, trigonometric identities and triangle problems. Quizzes will be given at least once a week and will be based primarily on the homework assignments. The lowest two quiz scores will be dropped (assuming that at least 12 quizzes have been given). In general make-up quizzes are not given. Midterm exams are scheduled for February 21 (selected sections from chapters 1 and 2), March 18 (emphasis on selected sections of Chapters 3 and 4) and April 22 (emphasis on Chapters 5 and 7). Exams will cover material from the textbook and any worksheets. Make-up exams will be provided for students who present appropriate written documentation such as a valid medical excuse, proof of a court date or participation in University activities at the request of University authorities. In case of illness, you should contact your teacher as soon as possibly, preferably by emailing or claling your teacher before the examination if at all possible. You must provide documentation of the reason for your absence in the next class session that is attended. Each student must bring a picture ID to each examination and to the final exam.

Final Examination: A two-hour cumulative final will be given on Monday, May 16, from 1:30-3:30 p.m. The location for the final for your section will be announced in May. You must take the exam at the location for your section. An alternate exam will be given if you are taking two math courses and this is the lower numbered course or upon presentation of appropriate documentation.

Special test arrangements: If you have a documented learning disability or physical handicap and need special assistance or additional time for exams or quizzes, you need to register with Disability Support Services (DSS) in Shoemaker. Your teacher must receive the necessary DSS forms at least two class days before each exam for which you will use DSS.

GRADE POLICY:

3 midterm exams (100 points each)	= 300 pts.
Quizzes	= 100 pts
Homework	= 100 pts
Final Examination	= 200 pts
TOTAL	= 700 pts

Average = (Total points)/7

The expectation is that a letter grade will be given using the following scale for the semester average: 90-100 (A), 80-89 (B), 70-79 (C), 60-69 (D), 0-59 (F). There will be no curving of exam grades during the semester. If there is any adjustment to this curve, it will only be done for the course totals and the final grade at the end of the semester. In the case of borderline grades, you need at least two exam grades at a given grade level in order to be considered for the higher grade. For example, suppose the lowest total for a C is 490 points and you have received exam scores of 65 (D), 57 (F), 90 (A) and 117 (D), a quiz total of 83 and a homework total of 68 for a total of 480 points. In this case your grade for the course would be a D.

Honor Code: You are expected to abide by the University Honor Code on all examinations, quizzes, and homework assignments. Copying solutions from the solutions manual is plagiarism. Copying homework solutions or quiz or test answers from someone else is also cheating as is altering a quiz or examination after it has been graded or giving answers to someone during an exam or quiz. You will be asked to write and sign the following honor pledge on each assignment, quiz and exam unless exempted on assignments by your instructor:

I pledge on my honor that I have not given or received any unauthorized assistance on this assignment / quiz / examination.

Calculators: A graphing calculator is required for this course and you should bring yours to every class. It is needed for exercises and explorations but is not allowed for examinations and some quizzes. Your teacher should be able to help you with the TI-83, or TI-84, or TI-86 type of calculator. We do not allow the use of calculators of any type on examinations and the TI-89 and TI-92 type of calculators are never allowed for quizzes. TI graphing calculators are available at the campus bookstore and many off-campus stores including stores such as Target, K-Mart, Costco, Staples or Office Depot.

The graphing calculator is a tool that we will use to explore functions and their graphs. You are responsible for knowing how to operate your calculator, as well as having a basic sense of what it can and cannot do (see pp. xx-xxi). Remember, however, that this course is still an algebra course. It is essential to learn the algebraic techniques contained in the course, especially if you plan to go on to a calculus course. On many quizzes and on examinations calculator use will not be allowed.

Learning Mathematics: Learning mathematics takes time and consistent effort. Attending class regularly, completing each assignment and reading class notes and the assigned section in the textbook before each class are essential for success in this course for most students. Extra help is available during your teacher's scheduled office hours or by appointment and through the departmental tutoring (hours will be announced and are posted on the departmental website www.math.umd.edu), Learning Assistance Service (LAS) (second floor Shoemaker Hall) and OMSE (1101 Hornbake). Math Success offers peer coaching at two centers during the semester: Easton Hall Recreation Room 6-9 pm Sunday-Thursday and the Student Union 6-9 Sundays. Use these opportunities! If you have difficulty or anxiety about Math 115 or mathematics in general, check out LAS (301 314 7693). A math counselor can help you to improve your math study skills (including math test-taking skills). LAS also has limited tutoring available plus video and computer aids

As you read each section keep a pencil, paper and your calculator handy and use them to work the examples. Notice that you are asked to read each section before coming to class. After you have read the section, try a few of the exercises so that you will know better what it is you need to have explained or discussed in class.

Video Tapes: There are two sets of video tapes that provide worked examples and explanations of techniques for this course; one collection was designed specifically to accompany our text, the second was created specifically for this course 12 years ago. These tapes are available in the Non-print Media Center on the fourth floor of Hornbake Library and at LAS on the second floor of Shoemaker. Although the older tapes were designed to go with Precalculus by Ellis and Gulick, the algebraic techniques demonstrated in the tapes are the same as the ones taught with the Stewart text. Ask for individual tapes by title. LAS also has a wide variety of computer programs if you need additional help with algebraic topics or topics such as fractions.

Web Resources: On the Mathematics Department Undergraduate program web page you will find the departmental tutoring schedule, links to web-based tutoring for precalculus topics (among others) and to course web pages, and a test bank for several of the 100- and 200-level courses.

Click here to go to the tutoring resources.

Proceeding to the next course: A grade of B or better in Math 115 is recommended for registration for Math 140; a grade of C or better or a satisfactory score on the placement exam is required for registration in Math 140.