MATH 0984 Math Literacy Syllabus 941 Spring 2026

Credit Hours 4.00 Lecture Hours 4 Clinical/Lab Hours 0
Type of Credit
CIP Code
32.0101
Course Meeting Time

MW 3:00 pm - 4:40 pm at South Extension Center, SE05

Course Description

This course is designed to be an alternative developmental mathematics path for non-STEM majors who plan to take general education mathematics and/or general education statistics. Topics in this course are presented in context and focus on numeracy, proportional reasoning, algebraic reasoning and functions. In addition to algebra topics, this course promotes developing mathematical reasoning through problem solving, critical thinking, data analysis, and the writing and communication of mathematics.

Prerequisites

MATH 0974 with a grade of C or better or appropriate assessment score

General Education Outcomes

General Education Outcomes are the knowledge, skills, abilities, attitudes, and behaviors that students are expected to develop as a result of their overall experiences with any aspect of the college, including courses, programs, and student services, both inside and outside of the classroom. The General Education Outcomes specifically learned in this course are:

  1. Communication
  2. Critical Thinking
Explanation of Course Alignment

Prerequisites: A grade of C or better in either MATH 0974 or appropriate assessment score –Must be completed prior to taking this course. This course is designed to be an alternative developmental mathematics path for non-STEM majors who plan to take general education mathematics and/or general education statistics. Topics in this course are presented in context and focus on numeracy, proportional reasoning, algebraic reasoning, and functions. In addition to the algebra topics, this course promotes the development of mathematical reasoning through problem-solving, critical thinking, data analysis, and the writing and communication of mathematics.

Faculty Contact Information

Faculty Name
Jorge R. Gavillan
Faculty Email
Faculty Office Number
R303
Faculty Student Support Hours

MW: 8 am - 9 am

TTH: 8 am - 9 am

Faculty Information

Jorge R. Gavillan, M.S.

email:jgavillan@kcc.edu

Course Information

Course Outcomes

At the end of this course, students will be able to:

  1. Apply basic math skills (such as percentages, decimals, and fractions) as required in all applications.
  2. Apply the order of operations and properties to simplify numeric expressions and algebraic expressions involving exponents and real numbers.
  3. Model situations with linear and exponential functions.
  4. Find and interpret the concept of slope in a variety of contexts.
  5. Convert units of measurement.
  6. Write algebraic expressions and equations to generalize patterns and represent real-life scenarios.
  7. Describe data using measures of central tendency.
  8. Create and interpret a variety of statistical displays and graphs in an applied context.
  9. Solve problems related to perimeter, area, and volume.
  10. Solve problems involving ratios, rates, and proportions.
  11. Apply and interpret theoretical and experimental probability for simple events.
Topical Outline
  1. Review fractions
  2. Venn diagrams
  3. Graphing points and interpreting line graphs
  4. Ratios and proportions (scaling)
  5. Experimental probability
  6. Mean
  7. Making and interpreting pie and bar graphs
  8. Scatterplots
  9. Converting units
  10. Percent change
  11. Algebraic terminology
  12. Arithmetic and geometric sequences
  13. Linear and exponential change
  14. Perimeter and area
  15. Weighted means
  16. Exponent rules
  17. Adding polynomials
  18. Order of operations
  19. Commutative, associative and distributive properties
  20. Simplifying algebraic expressions
  21. Using operations correctly
  22. Verifying solutions
  23. Solving applications numerically and algebraically
  24. Solving linear equations
  25. Solving proportions (cross products)
  26. Pythagorean Theorem
  27. Theoretical probability
  28. Volume and surface area
  29. Linear correlation and trendlines
  30. Slope and rate of change
  31. Slope-intercept form of linear equations
  32. Linear relationships
  33. Writing linear equations
  34. Exponential functions
  35. Solving non-linear equations
Common Course Materials/Textbooks

MyLab access code based on Math Lit, 3rd ed, by Almy, published by Pearson

Textbook/s and Course Materials

Math Lit, 3rd ed, by Almy, published by Pearson

(The access code and ebook come automatically with tuition)

 
Methods of Evaluation

Pass Quiz 5%

Homework  20%

Quizzes   20%

Midterm  25%

Final   30% 

Academic Division

Liberal Arts & Sciences

Dean, Jennifer Huggins; 815-802-8484; R310; jhuggins@kcc.edu; Division Office- W102; 815-802-8700

Course Policies

Attendance: Attendance is expected and is recorded daily. As with any class, attendance is vital to success. It is understood that conflicts arise, forcing students to miss class from time to time. If a student must miss class, the student is responsible for the material covered during the missed period. Videos of missed lessons and note-taking will be assigned. There will be no deadline extensions. Since a large amount of material is covered in each class meeting, frequent absences, late arrivals, or early departures will affect performance.

Homework: Homework will be assigned and completed using both MyMathLab and handouts. The homework in MyMathLab will focus on math skills, and as many opportunities as necessary will be provided to achieve full credit; thus, persistence iskey. Homework is your opportunity to practice and master the material. Homework is due on the date and time listed in MyMathLab and is completed on your own time. NO late work is accepted.

Quizzes: There will be a quiz per chapter. The quizzes will be in MyMathLab.

Tests: Midterm and Final Exams will be proctored. There will be no makeup tests. Exceptions to this will be at the instructor's discretion.

Calculator Usage Policy: A calculator will be allowed throughout the course, but you will be required to show work with fractions. Cell phones may notbe used as calculators; this will be beneficial during the Midterm and Final.

Cell Phones and All Electronic Devices (including laptop computers): Please turn off (or silence/put on vibrate) all cell phones and remove headphones before class begins. I would like you to be present and participate in class. If you receive a phone call that you must take, please step out of the classroom.

College Policies

For information related to the Student Code of Conduct Policy, Withdrawal Policy, Email Policy, and Non-Attendance/Non-Participation Policy, please review the college’s Code of Campus Affairs and Regulations webpage, which can be found at catalog.kcc.edu.

College Resources

Tutoring Services

Tutoring assistance is free to all currently enrolled KCC students. Our tutor program is certified by the College Reading and Learning Association (CRLA). For schedules, resources, and other helpful information, go to www.kcc.edu/tutoring.

Office of Disability Services

KCC works closely with students and instructors to accommodate individual student learning needs. For the services they offer, their contact information, and other helpful information, go to

www.kcc.edu/disabilityservices.

 

Miner Memorial Library

The Miner Memorial Library provides a variety of services free to students. For the services they offer, their hours of operation, and other helpful information, go to www.kcc.edu/library.

Copyright

The materials on this course are intended solely for students enrolled in this course andfor purposes associated with this course. Further information regarding KCC's copyright policy is available at http://www.kcc.edu/copyright.

 

Syllabus disclaimer

Course syllabus/calendar is subject to change.

Expectations for Classroom and Online Behavior
All students are required to demonstrate respectful, professional, and responsible behavior in every learning environment, both in person and online. A constructive learning atmosphere is fostered through active participation, thoughtful communication, and mutual respect between students and instructors.
In classroom settings, students are expected to arrive on time, be prepared, and remain engaged throughout the session. Electronic devices must be used solely for course-related activities. Respectful listening and collaboration are required during discussions and group work.
In online environments, including Canvas discussions, emails, and virtual meetings, students must communicate clearly, respectfully, and professionally. Written communication is required to maintain an academic tone, adhere to netiquette standards, and demonstrate respect for diverse perspectives.
Disruptive, disrespectful, or inappropriate behavior, whether in person or online, may result in removal from course activities or referral to relevant college offices in accordance with institutional policies.
Course Calendar

TBA

College Policies, Resources and Supports

College Policies

For information related to the Student Code of Conduct Policy, Withdrawal Policy, Email Policy, and Non- Attendance/Non-Participation Policy, please review the college’s Code of Campus Affairs and Regulations webpage, which can be found at catalog.kcc.edu under the Academic Regulations & Conduct Guide. 

Resources

KCC offers various academic and personal resources for all students. Many services are offered virtually, as well as in person. Please visit Student Resources - Kankakee Community College to access student resources services such as:

  • Clubs and organizations
  • Counseling and referral services
  • Office of disability services
  • Student complaint policy
  • Transfer services
  • Tutoring services, etc.