Syllabus

Math 131.03                             Survey of Mathematics                 Fall 2001 


Instructor:	
	Richard Stark, SB 172, ext. 4371, email:  richard@stark.smcm.edu
	Office Hours: M-W-F 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.  Other times are available upon appointment.

Time/Place:  	
	Tu-Th 2:00 - 3:50 p.m.,  SB 109

Text:	
	The Heart of Mathematics  --  Edward B. Burger, Michael Starbird

Content:	
	The course will give an introduction to the mathematical ways of thinking and present
	a variety of mathematical topics. Topics will be selected from the following chapters:
	Fun and Games;  Number Contemplation;  Infinity;  Geometric Gems.

Classes:
	There will be some lectures, discussions, and many problems will be investigated and solved in 
	class.  To keep up in the course, it is important that you attend all classes and prepare for
	each class.  Much of your work should be in writing -- English sentences, not just formulas --
	and you are encouraged to discuss your work with other students in the class.  Often, the class
	will split into small groups to discuss problems and work examples together. Frequent in-class
	quizzes will help you to keep up-to-date.
	Don't hesitate to speak up, ask questions, and voice your opinion.	

Help:
	Feel free to come to my offfice for help, or just for a chat.  Bring your questions and discuss
	your problems with me. 
	Courtney Russell, an upper-division computer science/mathematics major, will be teaching 
	assistant for this class, and she is also available for help.  She will attend classes and 	
	schedule weekly help sessions. 
	
Homework:
	Homework will not be collected but  feel free to turn in  problems that you have worked if you
	are not sure about your answers or need some feedback.  Homework problems will be discussed in 
	class at your request.

Evaluation:
	There will be (very) frequent unannounced quizzes, some to be taken in pairs or groups of 	
	three persons,  three tests, and a final exam.	
		Quizzes -- 20%;  each test -- 20%;  final exam -- 20%.

Tests:
	Test dates will be announced in class.
	Final exam  --  Monday, December 10, 7:00 - 9:00 p.m.