Math 311
Spring 2006
Course webpage

Instructor: Michael Joyce Meeting Time: MWF 11:00 - 11:50

Location: Boggs 240 (not Newcomb 2)

Course content: This course introduces students to the study of abstract algebraic structures. We will begin by reviewing and studying some concrete examples: integers, rational numbers, real numbers, complex numbers, clock arithmetic, polynomials, symmetries of geometric objects such as equilateral triangles and cubes. These concrete examples will motivate the main algebraic structures that we will study: rings, fields, and groups. The ultimate goals of the course are to familiarize students with abstract thinking (including writing logically correct mathematical proofs) and to help them learn how to apply the abstract concepts studied to some fun and interesting examples.

Textbook: Abstract algebra: a geometric approach by Theodore Shifrin

Attendance: Students are expected to attend all class meetings.

Homework: Homework will be assigned on a regular (weekly) basis. Your grade on homework assignments will constitute 30% of your overall grade.

Project: I am tentatively planning on assigning one "project" toward the end of the semester. This will be a longer and slightly more challenging homework assignment, based in part on material in the textbook not covered in class that you will have to read on your own. This project will count for 10% of your final grade. (If I decide not to assign a project, homework assignments will count for 40% of your final grade.)

Exam: There will be one in-class exam, tentatively scheduled for March 24. The exam will count for 25% of your final grade. There will not be a makeup exam.

Final Exam: The final exam will be held on Sunday, April 30 from 11:30 AM until 2:30 PM. You must take the final exam at the scheduled time. The final exam will count for 35% of your final grade.

Academic honesty: All students are expected to comply with the Honor Code of the Liberal Arts and Sciences. I take academic honesty very seriously and will take appropriate steps regarding all perceived violations.