Math 124 FAQ
Last Update: 05/21/2008 09:34:23 PM


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Do I have to use myMathLab at CourseCompass.com?
All homework and quizzes are in CourseCompass.  The book is also online in CourseCompass.  30% of your grade has to be done online in CourseCompass.  This means you would have to score 100% on all of the proctored exams just to get a 70%, C-, without taking the quizzes and homework online.  Bottom-line , you can't pass the course without it.


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Can I use notes or a cheat sheet on tests?
This a college level mathematics course that generally transfers to any college as College Algebra.  I believe that it is important to learn how to memorize and organize formulas and concepts without the aid of notes.  You may not appreciate this right now but your future employer will.


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Why do we use fractions instead of decimals?
It is certainly true that decimals can be easier to work with than fractions.  But, some fractions have terrible decimal representations.  Even our calculators lie to us about decimals.  Take 2/3.  My calculator says (yes it is a talking calculator)  2/3 = 0.66666667.  Not true.  What about fractions like 5/7?  5/7 = 0.714285714285... . A 6 digit repeating decimal.  I would rather work with 5/7.  For the sake of accuracy and simplicity, fractions are much better mathematically. 


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Do I get credit for 200.4 when the answer is 200.3?
No.  Pay attention to the instructions especially about rounding.  I asked an accountant why the books have to be balanced to the exact penny.  I was told that there could be 5 mistakes that add up to that one penny.  We don't know how many or what type of mistake.


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Can I make-up this quiz because the Internet was down?
No.  So get ahead. Homework and quizzes are open for many weeks before they are due.  I suggest you get at least one assignment ahead.  We are all very busy with hundreds of reasons why we couldn't take the quiz at 10 pm the night it is due.  Please plan better because even if something goes wrong that I can fix it is too late.  I am probably asleep by then.