Homework in Tucson Phil Cary, Chadron State College Wendiann Sethi, Seton Hall University Don Williamson, Jr, Chadron State College

June 21, 2007 Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop 2 Vision for refocused college algebra Students will gain an understanding of their surroundings through the development of appropriate mathematical models, performing calculations and interpreting the results of their models.

June 21, 2007 Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop 3 Goals for refocused college algebra Students will be able to use or apply the following in modeling:  Master algebraic rules  Analyze real situations  Apply problem solving strategies  Use properties of commonly used functions  Participate in partnerships and small teams  Use Calculator and Computer based technology  Communicate using mathematical terminology

June 21, 2007 Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop 4 Objective 1: Master Algebraic Skills Apply Order of Operations Manipulate algebraic symbols Solve equations Apply and use functional notation Understand properties of Real Numbers

June 21, 2007 Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop 5 Objective 2: Analyze real situations Collect, graph and analyze data from a real situation Determine a mathematical model from the data Interpret the resulting model

June 21, 2007 Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop 6 Objective 3: Apply problem solving strategies Clearly define the problem Develop strategies to solve various problems Learn how to predict the possible solutions Understand when a solution is reasonable or not Learn to refine strategies when necessary

June 21, 2007 Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop 7 Objective 4: Use properties of commonly used functions Learn the definition of a function and the general properties of functions Learn the definitions, properties and graphs of the following functions:  Linear  Polynomial  Exponential  Logarithmic  Power Learn when each of these functions occur in real situations

June 21, 2007 Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop 8 Objective 5: Participate in partnerships and small teams Participate in in-class activities when the student works individually, with a partner and with a small-group Learn to be an effective member of a team Learn the advantages of team/partnerships vs. individual Build a network within the class and outside of the class

June 21, 2007 Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop 9 Objective 6: Use Calculator and Computer based technology Strengthen and build calculator skills  Regression tools  Plotting data and curve-fitting Strengthen and build computer skills  Learn how to use Maple and Excel  Strengthen skills with Word and Power Point  Learn about resources on the Internet

June 21, 2007 Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop 10 Objective 7: Communicate using mathematical terminology Strengthen mathematical vocabulary Learn and strengthen writing skills though assignments Strengthen oral communication skills through in-class discussion, small group presentations, and individual presentations

June 21, 2007 Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop 11 Grades will be determined by the following: Homework In class assignments Tests Multiple Projects – small group – paper & presentation Final Exam Oral exam as a podcast (2-5 minutes)

June 21, 2007 Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop 12 Sample exam question Scenario question: Buying a car vs. leasing a car -> Which is the better buy if you travel less than 5,000 miles per year for five years? How would your answer change if you drove more than 10,000 miles per year?  Present value or future value  Problem solving  Interpreting the solution -> decision making based on quantitative information

June 21, 2007 Revitalizing College Algebra PREP workshop 13 Sample exam question (2) The tables below show linear, exponential, or quadratic data. Determine which is which, explain your reasoning, and write a formula for the function in each case and evaluate your function at x = 10 Table A Table B Table C