Math 251: Calc I - Spring 2007

Instructor: Jodi Fasteen

• Office: M326 Neuberger Hall. This is located between the 3rd and 4th floors.
• Office hours:
  • Monday and Wednesday: noon to 12:45,
  • Tuesday and Thursday: 2 to 3 pm
  or by appointment.
• e-mail: "jfasteen" at "pdx.edu"
• website: http://www.mth.pdx.edu/~jfasteen
• Homework

Prerequisites: The recommended prereq for this course is Math 112 (Trigonometry), as well as as Math 111 (Algebra). Similar courses are sometimes called "PreCalc". To determine whether you are ready for Calc I, make sure you are comfortable with functions (f(x) style), algebra, and graphing, as well as order of operations, fractions, and basic arithmetic. We will also assume that you are familiar with the basics of trigonometry and the sin, cos, and tan functions. One of the best ways to ensure success in calculus is to have a strong foundation in the prereqs.

Topics: Limits and derivatives, explored with graphs, algebra, and applications.

Goals:

• Think visually with the aid of concrete models and diagrams
• Understand and connect ideas and concepts
• Problem solve and reason mathematically
• Invent procedures and make generalizations
• Communicate mathematically
• Respect and understand the mathematical thinking of others
• Enjoy learning and doing math!

Attendance: There is a strong emphasis in this course on activity based learning. You will be constructing your knowledge of math concepts by doing activities in small groups in class. Regular attendance and participation is essential.

If you miss a class, you should arrange to get notes from a classmate. There are absolutely no make-ups without prior arrangement with the instructor or legitimate excuse such as a doctors note or funeral service card. A note from an employer is not a legitimate excuse. If you do need to make up an exam, you may need to pay a fee at the testing center for proctoring.

Disability Services: If you have a learning or physical disability and are in need of academic accommodations, please contact PSU’s Disability Services at 503-725-4150. They will determine any adjustments that need to be made for your individual needs.

Grading: In Class Activities/Participation 5% Homework Assignments 15% Quizzes 15% Midterms (2) 40% Final Exam 25%

Grading Scale A 90 - 100% B 80 - 89% C 70 - 79% D 60 - 69% F 0 - 59%

Homework Assignments: Homework assignments must be submitted on time (usually the start of class on Tuesdays). If you will be missing a class, please contact me ahead of time to make arrangements for submitting homework. Email is the best way to make these arrangements, as it provides me with a handy reminder. Homework may be in the form of problems from the book, or worksheets given in class.

Guidelines for HW:

• If a problem requires work, please show your work and explain your reasoning.
• If odd numbered problems are assigned, please check your answers and show your work.
• Stay caught up on assignments. No late assignments will be accepted, regardless of the excuse.
• You are welcome to work with your classmates. Please turn in your own copy of the assignment (unless otherwise directed in class).
• Work on your homework throughout the week. Do not wait until the weekend to start it.
• Please ask me if you have questions. Stop by my office or send me an email. I am here to help you. If you are nervous about coming to office hours, use the buddy system.

Quizzes: Quizzes will be given at random over recently covered material or homework. Please come to class each day prepared to demonstrate knowledge from the previous day's material. This will help us to avoid waiting until tests to iron out the kinks.

Prerequisite material is fair game for class projects and quizzes/exams. i.e. The correct use of functions, algebra, order of operations, and fraction operations is expected.