MAT128 - Calculus A - Spring, 2022

INSTRUCTOR: Andy Long. Office: MEP 443; phone: 572-5794; email: longa@nku.edu

MEETING TIME/PLACE: 2:00-3:15 (MW), MEP312

CATALOG DESCRIPTION: MAT 128 Calculus A Limits and differentiation with applications. Recommended for all students interested in mathematics or science. Credit is not given for both MAT 128 and MAT 129. A general studies course (mathematics). PREREQ: B- or better in MAT 119 or placement.

TEXT: We'll be using the free, on-line text Active calculus, by Matthew Boelkin. We will cover most of the material in chapters 1-3 (and maybe the first section of chapter 4).

GRADING: There will be three exams and a comprehensive final. Homework will be assigned regularly, either on-line, or to be carried out weekly and handed in on Canvas. Generally a few problems (chosen randomly) will be graded.

Your course grade will be determined as follows:

IMath Homework: 15% In-class homework/Labs: 15% Preview material: 5% Three Exams 45% Final (2:30 pm on 5/11) 20%

The midterm tests will be given in-class, on Wednesdays. Make-up exams will not be given except in extreme circumstances.

I use the standard grading scale, with a small buffer zone for the assignment of plus/minus grades:

COVID:

• NKU has a policy that all must have their nose and mouth covered with a mask while indoors on campus: our class will follow that policy.
• We have been asked to be flexible in terms of attendance the first two weeks, because of the surge in the Omicron variant of the virus. For that reason, I will be recording the class sessions on Zoom the first two weeks, and making those available. We know, however, that students are learning better when they take classes in person (if possible).
• If you need to quarantine because of COVID, let me know as soon as possible. I will work with you as best as I can to help you get through the course while you cannot be on campus.
• NKU's has a site devoted to its COVID policies and best practices.

That being said, allowances will be made for those impacted by Covid, in particular.

TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS:

• To submit some written assignments you will either scan them or take pictures of them. In the latter case you will need software that converts them to pdf files using something like the free phone app, Microsoft Lens. You will then submit them on Canvas.
• For use in class and on homework, you will want access to a laptop, tablet, graphing calculator, or an online app like Desmos available at https://www.desmos.com.
• For exams, you will be allowed a graphing calculator (and nothing more -- and, in particular, phones can't be used).

WITHDRAWAL: The last day to withdraw from any class with a grade of W is Monday, March 28. After that day it is not usually permitted.

OFFICE HOURS (all office hours are by Zoom): MW 11:00-12:00; MW 4:00-5:00; TR 2:00-3:00.

Notes:

• Course homepage: http://www.nku.edu/~longa/classes/mat128/
• Learning Objectives: http://www.nku.edu/~longa/classes/mat128/LearningObjectives.html
• Email: When writing an email, please include "mat128" in the message subject line -- it helps me to prioritize your email!
• If you miss a class, you should get the notes from another student in the class. Of course, if you are missing class for an extended time (such as illness or other serious problem), you should contact me as soon as possible.
• I reserve the right to alter this syllabus if necessary. Any changes will be discussed in class, and all students will be notified.
• If you need accommodations for a physical, psychological, or medical disability please talk with me so that I may do my best to meet your needs.
• The Departmental Syllabus for all Mathematics courses is a part of the syllabus for this course.