Ma 112 99S

Course Objectives

This is a first course in linear algebra. Our objectives are for you to

leave the course understanding the basic concepts of linear algebra and be able to apply them;
learn how to use the Maple kernel in Scientific Notebook to perform various mathematical operations;
learn how to use Scientific Notebook as a learning tool on exams and for homework;
learn how to use the Web to get and transmit information about the course and other topics;
have fun learning and doing the work required for the course.

Grades, Attendance and Work

If you want to do well in this course, expect to

attend class regularly;
work hard;
make an honest attempt to complete the assigned homework and projects.

The best (only) way to master the material presented in this course is by solving the many problems assigned for homework. There is no math gene. The most important key to your success in this course is your willingness to work hard and seek help when (not if) you have trouble.

There will be three (3) exams, each worth 100 points together with a 200 point final exam.  In addition, there will be frequent short quizzes, and these will count 100 points. Homework will count another 200 points.  Thus, there is a total of 800 points for all the work associated with the course. The final letter grade given will be based upon these 800 points. No hourly test score will be dropped.

You are to turn in the homework on the date indicated on the various homework pages. No late assignments will be accepted without a valid excuse.

All exams, quizzes, and homework are to be pledged. The policies of the Honor board are to be strictly followed.

Attendance at all classes is mandatory. Any student having no more than three (3) unexcused absences from lectures will have 20 points added to his/her point total at the conclusion of the course. It is your responsibility to sign the attendance sheet that will be distributed during each class.

Throughout the semester a grade file will be posted on my Web site. If you find an error in your grades, please let me or the TA know as soon as possible. It is your responsibility to make sure that the grades that we post for you  on the Web site are correct.

Homework

All homework is to be done using Scientific Notebook. No handwritten work will be accepted.

Reading

It is essential that you read the notes which you have downloaded as well as the textbook. Contrary to widely-held belief, this is both possible and productive. However, do not expect to read these materials as a novel---mathematics must be read slowly if it is to be understood. Because reading the text is essential, I offer the following suggestions for getting more out of it:

  1. Read carefully: read in sentences, not paragraphs or pages, and make sure that you understand what you are reading before you move on.
  2. Backtrack: if you find that something doesn't make sense, go back---find the definition that you need, or go back to the beginning of the part that doesn't make sense and read it carefully line-by-line.
  3. Work the examples in the book: when the book does an example problem, make sure that you see how it was done---the best way of doing this is by working the problem yourself on scratch paper! Math is meant to be read with a pencil in hand and paper nearby.

My Philosophy

It is my objective to help you learn as much as you can in this class, and to help you enjoy learning it. While this does not free you from the responsibility of working hard, I hope it will make your work worthwhile (and fun!). If you are willing to work at understanding the material we cover, I will do as much as I possibly can to help you do so.

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