Math 230 – CRN 74675
College Mathematics For the Humanities
Spring ‘23
Course Title: Math 230 (3 Units)
Instructor: Ms. Kerstin Riggenbach
Days: TTh 5:00 – 6:20 pm
Office Hours 4:30 -5:00 pm
Email: kriggenb@cuesta.edu
Welcome!
Math 230 is a non-traditional math course that highlights a broad survey of topics from the broad subject of mathematics without relying heavily algebra skills. Since we touch on such a wide variety of topics, students generally find they enjoy the course and can easily find some topics that really interest them. In addition to the topics we study as a group, you will have the opportunity to explore something that interests you specifically. I look forward to sharing this mathematical journey with you and hope that you find it to be a meaningful experience.
This journey will also be done in class in a lecture and discussion format.
Required Materials
We will be using the text College Math for the Humanities, 3rd Edition, by Vasta/Fisher-Vasta. This textbook is only available at the Cuesta Bookstore or on lulu.com.
Here’s the link to order on line: http://www.lulu.com/shop/joe-vasta-and-tammy-fisher-vasta/college-math-for-the-humanities-3rd-edition/paperback/product-24067759.html
You should also own a scientific calculator for this class. A calculator with a complete display showing the calculation across the screen is more user friendly. For the mathematics in art lessons, you may wish to have a ruler & compass and you may wish to have colored writing utensils to embellish the assignments.
Technologies
Canvas: Student will need to be able to check grades, post assignments, respond to discussions, upload files as PDF's.
Power Point
About the course
This course is designed to deepen your knowledge of the nature of mathematical thinking and to explore applications and the history of mathematics from ancient times to the present. Some of the topics in this section of Math 230 include early numeration systems, set theory, mathematics in art, mathematical reasoning, probability, counting theory, and finance.
Student Learning Objectives: By the end of the course you will be able to:
- Analyze a graph or table and use the information to answer follow-up questions in either set-theory, graph theory, or logic problems.
- Identify key words and interpret their meaning into symbolic language including conjunction disjunction, and conditionals.
- Choose an appropriate method to correctly solve a counting or probability problem. Clearly communicate your results and put them into the context of the original problem.
You may view the Official Course Math 230 Outline
Class Policies
- You are expected to attend class. Roll will be taken. To excel in class you’ll need to be diligent about setting your schedule for completing all assignments. If you find you need to drop the class, remember to fill out all the proper paper work.
- Tests are scheduled on your class calendar in Canvas. All tests are to be taken on the date assigned. There are no make ups for missed Tests. One missing test may be replaced by the percentage of the final exam. You will be expected to complete the tests on your own, with complete integrity.
- Cheating Policy: Cheating will not be tolerated in this course. The penalty for cheating will be an automatic zero on that assignment or test or quiz as well as a formal written report to the Vice President of Student Affairs. Academic Integrity
How Grade is Calculated
The grading scale will be based on the percentage earned as follows:
A 90.0 – 100.0%
A- 89.5 – 89.9%
B+ 86.0 – 89.4%
B 80.0 – 85.9%
B- 79.5 – 79.9%
C+ 76.0 – 79.0%
C 69.5 – 75.9%
D 60.0 – 69.4%
D- 59.5 – 59.9%
F 59.4% and below
Point Structure and weights
Tests (45%)
100 points
Exams will be completed in class on the scheduled day. Each test will include all material discussed in class. There will be 3 Tests each covering about two chapters.
Final Exam (15%)
100 points
A final, focused, on the material from the textbook will be given at the end of the course. More information will be provided later in the semester. Your final exam score can replace one of your lowest test scores, if it is to your advantage.
Homework (10%)
25 points each week
Your homework will be due Monday for the previous weeks work. You will be expected to show work for every problem and then grade your homework for the week. All work needs to be done on white 8.5x11 paper (ruled or not ruled). Please complete in pencil. One week’s low score may be dropped.
Group Problems and Discussion Posts (10%)
20 points each
Math and Art (8%)
10 points each
Celtic Knot and Origami
Project (12%)
100 points
Everyone will have the opportunity to explore a topic of their choice related to
Mathematics from a list of topics. Students have the option to share their topic by creating a power point presentation with a voice over, or presenting their power point during class.
DSPS:
Any student who feels s/he may need an accommodation based on recommendations from the DSPS office, please talk to me individually.
How to be Successful
- Attend class
- Take notes and stay engaged
- Complete all homework daily, even though it is collected weekly. Please don’t create a Sunday Homework Marathon day. It’ll just frustrate you and you’ll be angry at me!
- Set a daily schedule of when you will complete homework, study for tests, respond to discussion etc.
- Work every problem of every assignment. If you get stuck, get HELP!
- Read the section as well as complete the homework.
- Persevere!
Technical Support
Cuesta students are encouraged to direct all technical support inquiries to support@my.cuesta.edu. If you are having issues with Canvas, you should contact the Canvas Support Hotline at (877) 921-7680, or click on the help button on the Canvas Navigation to report a problem.
If you are having difficulty viewing the course or logging in, it may be because you are not using the correct url: https://cuesta.instructure.com/ or you are using your phone or using an unsupported browser.
Your learning environment is best accessed from a desktop or laptop computer, using Firefox or Chrome. This may solve your problem! Please review the browser requirements and minimum computer specifications at:
Accommodations:
This course is designed using an accessible Learning Management System, and course materials have been created with ADA compliance in mind. If you have a disability and might need accommodations in this class such as extended time on exams or other resources. Please contact the instructor as soon as possible so that you can receive appropriate accommodations in a timely manner. You should also contact DSPS (Disabled Student Programs & Services) at 805-546-3148 or
College & Course Policies:
Academic Honesty Policy: [Identify your course specific academic honesty policy]. In addition to my course policy, please note all students attending San Luis Obispo County Community College District at any district site and when representing Cuesta College in any off-campus activity, assume an obligation to conduct themselves in an acceptable manner compatible with the Student Code of conduct. Please review the Cuesta College Student Code of conduct at:
Add / Drop Policy: [Identify your course-specific add/drop policy] In addition to my policy, please review the Cuesta policy for drops
Waitlist Policy: [Identify your course-specific waitlist procedures]. In addition to my course specific procedures, please review Cuesta’s waitlist procedure and instructions:
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