Fundamental Math 233

Office hours (held in my office:  FO3-218): 

Fundamentals of logic and set theory, functions and relations, induction and recursion, elementary number theory, congruences, counting principles, introduction to probability. Students will be asked to write valid mathematical proofs.

In addition to gaining mastery of the topics, the students should be able to

• reason deductively from explicit assumptions and definitions
• correctly use the language of mathematics both verbally and in well written sentences.
• determine how to begin thinking about mathematical questions in such a way to efficiently approach a solution.
• determine whether or not a mathematical argument is complete, and assess the validity of mathematical assertions.

Text:

Introduction to Mathematical Structures and Proofs, by Larry J. Gerstein. Third edition, Springer-Verlag, 1996.
 

Homework.  Expect daily homework assignments, due the following class period.  The assignments will be graded subject to the following rules:

• A problem completed correctly and on time will receive 10 points.
• A problem completed correctly and up to one week late will receive 8 points. (I really want you to do the homework!!)
• An incorrect problem (one which is either mathematically wrong or written poorly) will receive partial credit and may be corrected and resubmitted within a week from when it is returned for up to 8 points.  (In fact, I really want you to do the homework correctly!! Even if you need help or more time.)

Quizzes.  Once in a blue moon, I may want to give you a quiz. If I do, you will be warned in advance. The scores from any quizzes will be added into the homework scores for grading purposes.

Exams:

 

March 4th	Midterm 1
April 22nd	Midterm 2
TBA	Final Exam

Grades:

 

Grade Distributions. Homework and Quizzes 40% Midterm 1 15% Midterm 2 15% Final Exam 30%

Cut-offs for letter grades.   Homework and Quizzes Midterm 1 Midterm 2 Final  A 90       B 80       C 70       D 60