Syllabus
E-mail: jzinn@math.tamu.edu
Fax: (979) 845-6028
No Phone due to cuts in budget.
Homepage: http://www.math.tamu.edu/~joel.zinn
TEXTBOOK: Introduction to Abstract Mathematics by Bond and Keane
CATALOG DESCRIPTION: Foundations of mathematics including logic, set theory, combinatorics, and number theory. Prerequisite: MATH 172. Prerequisite: MATH 172.
Math 220 is designed to provide a bridge between computational mathematics
and theoretical mathematics (``real math'').
Thus a major goal is to teach
the students how to write proofs.
The required core of topics include logic, set theory, number theory,
induction, functions, operations,
and combinatorics. Since there
is an emphasis on how to create and write proofs, most professors find
that these topics are
sufficient for the semester. If time permits, the
professor may choose to teach other topics, such as graph theory.
Schedule: The following is approximate and subject to
change depending on the needs of the class.
Each section should take at least 2
days. However, we will spend more time on the material in Chapter
5.
Grading. First note that this course is an official Writing Course. Hence about 1/3 of the grade is based on
your ability to
communicate your ideas. The most obvious way in which the "1/3" will be
manifested is through specific assignments, papers and
quizzes in which writing will play an integral part. However, writing communication
skills will also be taken into account
in the normal course of grades on other homeworks, quizzes and exams. Course grades will be based on the following:
1. Two midterms, each worth 20%. Dates: To be announced.
2.
Weekly Homeworks/Quizzes (total of 30%), to be turned in every Wednesday. The
homework assignments will be
posted here
There will be one or two small papers, which will be used as part of the HW/Q grade.
3. Final (30%).
Grades will be determined as usual:
A: [90, 100], B: [80, 90), C: [70, 80), D: [60, 70), F: [0, 60).
MAKE-UPS: These will only be given in cases authorized under TAMU Regulations. If you miss an exam you must contact me immediately.
Statement on SCHOLASTIC DISHONESTY: The Faculty Senate version for the first day handout:``As commonly defined, plagiarism consists of passing off as one's own the ideas, words, writings, etc., which belong to another. In accordance with this definition, you are committing plagiarism if you copy the work of another person and turn it in as your own, even if you should have the permission of that person. Plagiarism is one of the worst academic sins, for the plagiarist destroys the trust among colleagues without which research cannot be safely communicated.''
More on SCHOLASTIC DISHONESTY: Copying work done by others, either in-class or out of class, is an act of scholastic dishonesty and will be prosecuted to the full extent allowed by University policy. Collaboration on assignments, either in-class or out-of-class, is forbidden unless permission to do so is granted by your instructor. For more information on university policies regarding scholastic dishonesty, see University Student Rules.
Americans with Disabilities Act: The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides comprehensive civil rights protection for persons with disabilities. Among other things, this legislation requires that all students with disabilities be guaranteed a learning environment that provides for reasonable accommodation of their disabilities. If you believe you have a disability requiring an accommodation, please contact the office of Disability Services in Cain Hall (telephone 979-845-1637).
COPYRIGHT POLICY: All printed materials disseminated in class or on the web are protected by Copyright laws. One xerox copy (or download from the web) is allowed for personal use. Multiple copies or sale of any of these materials is strictly prohibited.
SPECIAL SERVICES: Students with disabilities can get assistance from the Office of Services for Students with Disabilities (845-1637).
University regulations state the following: Make-ups for missed exams will only be allowed for a university-approved excuse, which must be provided in writing. Students are required to notify the instructor by the end of the next working day after missing an exam. Otherwise, they forfeit their rights to a make-up.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal anti-discrimination statute that provides comprehensive civil rights protection for persons with disabilities. Among other things, this legislation requires that all students with disabilities be guaranteed a learning environment that provides for reasonable accommodation of their disabilities. If you believe you have a disability requiring an accommodation, please contact the Department of Student Life, Services for Students with Disabilities, in Room 126 of the Koldus Building or call 845-1637.
Academic Integrity: The Aggie Honor Code states the following: `` An Aggie does not lie, cheat, or steal or tolerate those who do.'' (and this means you!) The Honor Council Rules and Procedures may be found here.
Copyright Information: Please note that all written and web materials for this course have an implied copyright. In particular, you can xerox (or download) for your own use, but you may not reproduce them for others.