Course Syllabus

MATH 150-0729, MATH-150S-0057

Elementary Statistics with Probability (and support corequisite)

Semester

Fall 2023

Lecture Course Times

Monday Tuesday Wednesday 08:00am – 09:15pm

Support Course Times

Thursday 08:00am – 9:05am

Course Units

4 (MATH 150), 1 (MATH 150S)

Course Prerequisite

MATH 73 or MATH 80 with minimum grade of C, or by placement.

Instructor’s Name

David Ramirez-Ortega

Email Address & Phone

dramirez@elcamino.edu, (310) 660-3593,

Office Location

Library, Tutoring Center

Office Hours

Mon-Thrus from 09:30 am- 10:00 am

Course Descriptions

MATH 150

This course focuses on the basic principles of statistics, including descriptive statistics, inferential statistics, and the role probability plays in statistical analysis. Students will calculate and interpret various descriptive statistics using graphing calculators with statistical testing capabilities and statistical software, as well as by hand. Major topics include methods of data collection and simulation; measures of central tendency, variability, and relative position; graphical summaries of data; linear regression and correlation; distributions, including normal and binomial distributions; probability theory; and inferential statistical methods. Students will choose, justify, use, and interpret the results of inferential techniques, such as confidence intervals, hypothesis tests, goodness of fit, analysis of variance, and nonparametric tests.

MATH 150S

This course is designed to support students concurrently enrolled in Elementary Statistics (Math 150). As needed, students review core skills and topics necessary to meet the Elementary Statistics student learning outcomes and objectives. Students explore strategies and habits used by successful independent learners. Topics reviewed in this support course may include: concepts from arithmetic, pre-algebra, elementary and intermediate algebra, and descriptive statistics that are needed to understand the basics of college-level statistics.

Course Objectives

MATH 150

1.       Identify, compare and contrast various types of data and sampling techniques.

2.       Create appropriate displays of data, including histograms, frequency distributions, stem and leaf plots, box plots, bar graphs and pie charts. Use the displays to interpret and answer questions in the context of the data.

3.       Calculate appropriate measures of central tendency, variation and relative position. Use the measures to interpret and answer questions in the context of data.

4.       Calculate the probability of a given event using elementary probability techniques.

5.       Perform parametric and non-parametric hypothesis tests using the classical (critical region) and probability (P-value) methods and interpret the results in context. Justify the choice of test by demonstrating that the necessary criteria are met.

6.       Describe the role probability and the central limit theorem play in confidence intervals and hypothesis testing.

7.       Create appropriate scatterplots for a given set of bivariate data. Calculate the regression line and correlation coefficient, interpret the results and use the regression line to calculate predicted values.

8.       Perform tasks using statistical software.

9.       Calculate and interpret confidence interval estimates of various parameters. Justify the choice of confidence interval by demonstrating that the necessary criteria are met.

MATH 150S

1.       Solve, graph and interpret linear equations, including understanding slope and intercepts in real-life applications.

2.       Evaluate expressions correctly using order of operations and evaluate formulas given values for all necessary variables.

3.       Read and interpret a variety of tables, charts, and graphs including bar graphs, pie charts, histograms, and scatterplots.

4.       Translate applied problems into mathematical statements and translate mathematical solutions into verbal conclusions.

5.       Convert between fractions, decimals, and percentages and understand the relative sizes of these values.

Student Learning Outcomes

1.       From data or bivariate data, compute statistics and develop displays of the data that illustrate the measures of central tendency, variation, relative position, and correlation. Interpret the displays in context.

2.       Compute probability of an event by applying the basic assumption in classical probability and using addition rule and multiplication rule for contingency tables.

3.       Use the Central Limit Theorem to compute probabilities concerning the distribution of the sample means and comparing these to the probabilities of the related random variable.

4.       Compute the confidence intervals and conduct hypothesis testing for a variety of parameters, and perform non-parametric hypothesis testing.

Course Textbook & Supplies

Barbara Illowasky. Introductory Statistics: Open Stax

https://openstax.org/details/books/introductory-statistics

Texas Instrument 84-Plus Calculator (Recommended, see me for alternatives)

Deck of 52 Playing Cards

5x7 Flash Cards

2 Composition notebooks

Evaluation

If MATH 150 is a prerequisite for another course, a grade of C or higher is required in the MATH 150 lecture course only.  Also, if you withdraw from either the lecture or the support course, you will be withdrawn from both courses. 

In this course, I actively emphasize the importance of staying organized and deeply grasping mathematical concepts, valuing them more than just arriving at correct answers. It's essential to understand that the true essence of mathematics unfolds as we engage in the process, rather than solely focusing on end results. When I evaluate assignments, I will be paying close attention to your ability to genuinely comprehend the core of the problem, your adeptness at crafting a clear and well-thought-out strategy, and, subsequently, your precision in approaching the solution. Remember, it's through this journey that a genuine understanding of mathematics blossoms, and I'm here to offer unwavering support every step of the way.

MATH 150

Exams: 20%

Homework: 25%

Quizzes: 25%

Final Exam: 30%

MATH 150S

Homework: 100%

Grading Scale

Below is the grading scale for both courses. 

MATH 150

[90% , 100%] = A

[80% , 90%) = B

[70% , 80%) = C

[60% , 70%) = D

[0% , 60%) = F

MATH 150S

[70% , 100%] = P

[0% , 70%) = NP

Important Dates

Last date to Drop and be Eligible for a Refund: Sunday September 10, 2023

Last Day to Add: Sunday September 10, 2023

Last Day to Drop Without Notation on Permanent Record: Sunday September 10, 2023

Last Day to Drop with a “W”: Friday November 17. 2023

Thanksgiving Holiday: Thursday-Friday, November 23-24, 2023

ADA

Statement

El Camino College is committed to providing educational accommodations for students with disabilities, upon the timely request by the student to the instructor. A student with a disability, who would like to request an academic accommodation, is responsible for identifying him or herself to the instructor and to the Special Resources Center. To arrange for academic accommodations, contact the Special Resources Center.

Students requiring special accommodations need to speak with me outside of regularly scheduled class time. Students who think that they might need extra time to take tests need to go to the Special Resources Center (located next to the Student Services Center) and be tested for a learning disability.

If a student is determined to have a learning disability, a form will be completed by the representatives working there. The student needs to bring me the completed form at least three days before an exam, and then extra time will be allowed for the student to take the test. Students who are allowed extra time for exams will take the tests at the Special Resource Center.

Academic Honesty

El Camino College places a high value on the integrity of its student scholars. When an instructor determines that there is evidence of dishonesty in any academic work (including, but not limited to cheating, plagiarism, or theft of exam materials), disciplinary action appropriate to the misconduct as defined in BP 5500 may be taken. A failing grade on an assignment in which academic dishonesty has occurred and suspension from class are among the disciplinary actions for academic dishonesty (AP 5520). Students with any questions about the Academic Honesty or discipline policies are encouraged to speak with their instructor in advance.

Drop and Withdrawals

It is the student’s responsibility to drop all classes in which she/he is no longer participating or attending. It is at the instructor’s discretion to drop a student for excessive absences at any time during the allowed drop/withdrawal period for the course. Students who remain enrolled in a class beyond the published withdrawal deadline must receive an evaluative letter grade in the class. (A ‘W’ grade cannot be assigned during final grading for students still appearing on the roster)

Course Expectations and Behavior

In our learning environment, it's essential to cultivate an atmosphere of mutual respect and professionalism. Treat your peers, instructor, and any guest speakers with courtesy, embracing diverse viewpoints and engaging in constructive conversations. Actively listen and refrain from disruptive behaviors, while using language that upholds respect and inclusivity. Arrive punctually and maintain a positive digital presence. Uphold the confidentiality of discussions and encourage collaborative teamwork. Address concerns with the instructor privately, and together, let's create an environment where everyone feels valued and contributes positively to our shared educational journey.

Late Work

While I understand that students have diverse commitments, it's crucial to develop the skill of managing and catching up on missed work. Research consistently highlights the value of set deadlines in promoting accountability and focus. To maintain a productive pace, I will be enforcing deadlines for homework, quizzes, and exams. If you encounter difficulties participating in any of these aspects, please reach out promptly so that we can explore potential adjustments. Your proactive communication plays a key role in ensuring a successful academic experience. 

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