Letter to the Student

To the Student

This course is designed to help you develop some algebraic skills and learn to use a combination of algebraic, graphical, and numerical methods to discover and express mathematical relationships found in the world around you. As you work through the activities, we hope that you will:

see connections between mathematics and other areas,
acquire skills and knowledge you will need for subsequent mathematics courses
become adept in using some technological tools such as calculators and spreadsheets,
become self-directed, independent, and persistent in pursuing solutions to problems,
develop a variety of problem-solving strategies,
perform cooperatively and effectively in small goup work,
gain success in solving non-routine problems, and
become skillful in explaining and justifying your reasoning.

Because learning is an active and constructive process, be engaged, persistent, and imaginative in approaching the challenges presented in the activities and exercises. Since the objectives of the activities and exercises are best achieved in a cooperative learning environment, it is intended that you work on the activities and exercises with a few of your classmates. To clarify your thinking about the ideas involved in the activities and exercises, work together in explaining and justifying your perceptions, strategies, and procedures. However, in all cases where work is to be submitted as the results of your own efforts, do not submit the work of another as your own. (Give credit for any help you receive.)

Also, use other resources in working on the activities and exercises. Your text, or other reference works, might provide needed information. In addition to your classmates, other friends could offer appropriate guidance. After the first few weeks, a graphing calculator will be essential in working some exercises. Following the first test, you should bring a graphing calculator (such as a TI-83 or TI-84) to each class session.

Your instructor will provide suggestions and guidance. Questions concerning the activities and exercises will be discussed in class or via e-mail. Although you may have forgotten some of the mathematical skills knowledge assumed as pre-requisite for this course, if you have taken two years of secondary school algebra you can regain the knowledge necessary to successfully complete the activities and exercises in this course. Time and determination promote effective learning. You will find there is no substitute for time on task. Learning to use your time well is critical. Four to six hours per week should be a realistic minimum amount of time to allocate for out-of-class study and preparation for this course.

Enjoy the effort.