Course Information

Math 40A + Math 240A Co-req: Quantitative Reasoning Skills

Course Description

This course satisfies the graduation competency in mathematics for the Associate Degree. Students will develop an understanding of how mathematical thinking can be used in life-- to investigate new contexts, develop and propose possible solutions, discuss and analyze proposed plans, and make decisions. Students will learn to value the collaborative process of explaining, investigating, comparing and assessing a variety of perspectives and approaches.

Through immersion in contextualized lessons, students will practice quantitative thinking as they build skill in communication, critical and creative thinking, and computation. They will grow their knowledge and understanding of themselves, each other, and the world through the study of culturally relevant contexts, such as personal finance, health and wellness, membership in society, and the environment.

This class is designed for students exploring math. It provides ongoing opportunities to interact with the campus community. Students can expect to develop many transferable skills, including communication skills (written, verbal, and reading-based), critical and creative thinking skills, and inter- and intrapersonal skills (self-regulated learning, teamwork, empathy), which will support them in engaging with transfer level math.

Co-requisite Description: A just-in-time approach to the core prerequisite skills, competencies, and concepts needed for quantitative reasoning.
Units: 7.5 - 5 for Math 40A + 2.5 for Math 240A
Course Outcomes Students will See and use quantitative reasoning as a tool for understanding the world. See themselves as mathematical thinkers and creators of knowledge Develop communication strategies and skills: for comprehending quantitative contexts, discussing those contexts and the mathematics needed to address them, and reporting their findings, both verbally and in writing. Apply their understanding and knowledge of how to use variables (including subscripts), order of operations, and units (including dimensional analysis), growing their confidence in using formulas in any field. Incorporate mathematical reasoning into their decision-making toolbox in all aspects of their life (personal, professional, and academic).
Grade Type: Letter Grade, the student may select Pass/No Pass
Hours: 7.5 hours per week
Intended Majors/Careers: All majors and careers
Transferable to: Course is not transferrable. Meets the minimum mathematics competency requirement for the Foothill Associate's degree.
Advisory: Demonstrated proficiency in English by placement as determined by score on the English placement test OR through an equivalent placement process OR completion of ESLL 125 & ESLL 249
Prerequisite Skills: Appropriate placement. Course assumes some experience with beginning algebra, but just-in-time review and support is built into the class.
Sample Syllabus: Math 40A Quantitative Reasoning Skills varies by instructor
Sample homework assignments and quizzes: Varies by instructor
Hours of homework/night: Approximately 1-2 hours a night (Average of 8 hours homework per week)
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