MAT 117 Fall 2025 - Quick Reference Notes

Course Overview

• MAT 117 (Fall 2025): focus on linear and quadratic functions, general polynomial functions, rational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, and systems of linear equations.
• Exams: 4 exams assessing unit mastery; content spans through A, B, C, D units with defined coverage per exam.
• Delivery: in-person and Zoom options; expectations set in syllabus and Canvas announcements.

Instructor and Contact

• Instructor: Johrdyn Kimberly Lorden
• Email: JKLorden@asu.edu (use your ASU email to avoid spam filtering)
• Office: UCENT 348AB
• Office hours: Tue/Thu 1:45–2:45 pm; Zoom on Wed 1:00–3:00 pm
• Appointments: by email; check Canvas announcements for updates

Communication and Course Platform

• Email etiquette: include class (MAT 117, section/time), proper salutation, sign-off
• Primary communications: ASU email and Canvas announcements
• Homework: online through ALEKS; due by 11:59 pm MST; no makeups for homework
• Always check syllabus, announcements, and Canvas posts for updates
• Attire: professional clothing in person and on Zoom
• All due dates are in Mountain Standard Time (MST)

Course Objectives and Student Learning Outcomes

• Evaluate, create, and manipulate expressions
• Solve equations and inequalities; graph and analyze functions
• Graph and analyze linear, exponential, rational, polynomial, and logarithmic functions
• Communicate mathematical concepts effectively
• Build solid foundational operations for real-world applications

Course Materials and Tools

• ALEKS: primary platform for online modules and homeworks
• Textbook: not required; notes binder is required for reference and study
• Notes Binder: maintain guided notes, homework notes, and problem sets
• ALEKS modules: due Saturdays; no makeups; Catch-Up module offered for partial credit
• Homework extension: through Dec 5 for half credit; you may redo homeworks to improve scores
• Module progression: Unit A modules before Exam 1; Unit B before Exam 2; Unit C before Exam 3; Unit D before Exam 4

Grading and Assessments

• Grading components (percent of course):
  • Module Average: $0.10 imes ext{Module AVG}$
  • Homework Average: $0.15 imes ext{Homework AVG}$
  • Problem Sets (Drop Lowest 4): $0.20 imes ext{AVG of 4 drops}$
  • Exam 1: $0.10 imes ext{Exam1}$
  • Exam 2: $0.15 imes ext{Exam2}$
  • Exam 3: $0.15 imes ext{Exam3}$
  • Exam 4: $0.15 imes ext{Exam4}$
• Overall grade formula:
  $\text{Grade} = 0.10\times\text{Module AVG} + 0.15\times\text{Homework AVG} + 0.20\times\text{Drop4 PS AVG} + 0.10\times\text{Exam1} + 0.15\times\text{Exam2} + 0.15\times\text{Exam3} + 0.15\times\text{Exam4}$
• Exams: proctored; two parts per exam (written/applications and ALEKS digital problems)
• Reference sheet: allowed (one page, front/back); scratch paper provided
• Missed exams: require emergency documentation; makeup must be scheduled within the week; advance notice for non-emergency is not considered an emergency

Exams and Coverage

• Exam 1: Algebra Basics — A1 to A6 (paper and digital formats available)
• Exam 2: Basic Functions, Equations, & Review — A1 to B9
• Exam 3: Advanced Functions & Equations — C10 to C13
• Exam 4: Trigonometry & Review — T14 to T18

Attendance, Problem Sets, and Class Conduct

• Attendance is critical; 4 problem sets are dropped (equivalent to ~2 weeks of absences)
• Absence policy: considered absent if more than 10 minutes late to class
• Cell phones: not permitted in class; violations may affect grades
• Behavior: maintain respectful conduct; disruptive behavior can lead to withdrawal from the course
• No individual extra credit assignments

Accessibility and Accommodations

• SAILS (Student Accessibility and Inclusive Learning Services) handles accommodations
• Notify instructor at semester start or during office hours for accommodations
• Eligibility requires verification from SAILS; contact SAILS for accessibility needs
• Accommodations require two weeks prior notice for exams
• All accommodations information is confidential

Academic Integrity and Generative AI

• Generative AI policy: producing graded solutions with AI tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Copilot) is not allowed for graded assignments
• AI may be used as a study aid to understand concepts, but not to generate graded work
• Violations may lead to academic integrity actions (course/assignment penalties, referrals, etc.)
• ASU Academic Integrity Policy applies; see policy for details

Safety, Wellbeing, and Support Resources

• Safe learning environment: respect differences and maintain inclusive dialogue
• Mental health and counseling: ASU Counseling Services available; contact information provided in the syllabus
• Title IX: resources and reporting information; crisis and support resources available
• Tutoring, Career Services, Writing Centers, and other campus resources listed for student success

Policies and Calendar Notes

• Syllabus is a contract; instructor may update policies as needed with timely announcements
• All dates and times are in MST; refer to ASU Academic Calendar for session-specific dates
• There are no exam extensions beyond the announced close date
• Recordings and note-taking: permission required for sharing instructor notes; respect copyright and note-taking policies