MAT 511  A  TRANSITION  TO  ADVANCED  MATHEMATICS

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Course Description

MAT 511 is basically about learning to undertand and write proofs. Thinking that one understands a mathematics statement and giving a sound logical proof of the same are two quite different things. We shall aim to develop the understanding of the logical foundations of mathematics, whose fundamental objects include sets, numbers and functions among other things. A lot of emphasis will be put on learning to write proper mathematical proofs.
NOTE     There are two lectures for MAT 511. Although we will be following the same book and covering the same material, the precise topics covered in class will be different between the two lectures. The homework, quizzes and the final exam MAY be different. However, you're encouraged to check the website for lecture 2.

Textbook

The required textbook is "A Transition to Advanced Mathematics" by Smith, Eggen and St. Andre, 6th edition.

Course Material

A (rough) schedule (following the 6th edition of the book) is given detailing the sections to be covered in each lecture. You are encouraged to have a look at the corresponding sections before coming to class. Most of the material in first five chapters of the text book will be covered in this course.

Class Details

TuTh  6:00 pm - 9:25 pm
Lecture Hall Physics P118

Homework

Homework problems will be assigned on Tuesdays and will be due the next Tuesday unless mentioned otherwise. You are required to do all the assigned problems. Solutions should be written neatly and clearly and homeworks should be properly stapled, NO EXCEPTIONS. Selected problems will be graded. It is also recommended that you work additional problems to increase your understanding. If you do not understand how to solve a certain problem, get help from your instructor, your classmates, or from tutors in the Math Learning Center. You are encouraged to study and discuss homework problems with others from the class, but please write your solutions yourself. NO LATE HOMEWORKS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

Quizzes/In-class participation

There may be a few in-class quiz throughout the session, sometimes unannounced. Moreover, we will have group discussions on several problems and in-class particpation will count towards the final grade. Here is a list of problems we worked out in group discussions so far.

Grading

The final grade for this class will be computed from your final exam score, homework, quizzes and in-class participation, weighted by the following amounts:

Quizzes                          15%       Weekly quizzes
In-class participation       15%      
Homework                     30%        Due each Tuesday in class, starting the second week of classes
Final exam                      40%        July 9, 6:00 pm - 8:25 pm

The grader for the course is Jiansong Chen.   

Office Hours

Tu 3-5pm @2-112, Th 3-5pm @MLC
Tu, Th 12-3pm, W 12-4 pm @MLC (Jiansong Chen)

Important : There will be an in-class FINAL (JULY 9 - THURSDAY). A list of practice problems has been put up. We'll keep adding problems to the list as we go along. Solutions to homework 2 has also been put up. There will be NO MAKE-UPS for missed homework or quizzes. It is your responsibility to arrange your schedule to be able to take the exams at the scheduled time. Rare exceptions can be made if it is matter completely beyond your control (like a medical emergency) but proper documentation must be provided. Books, notes etc. are not allowed during exams. If you need to bring a backpack etc. to an exam, you must place it, all pockets and flaps closed in plain sight of the proctors.

Extra Help

The Math Learning Center is located in Room S-240A in the Mathematics Building, Floor S. MLC hours are Monday through Thursday 10-6. It is staffed by experienced mathematics tutors, including professors, graduate students, and advanced undergraduate students. Students may drop in, without an appointment. Your recitation instructor will hold at least one office hour per week at the Math Learning Center. Check out the Math Learning Center website for more information.

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Students with Disabilities

If you have a physical, psychological, medical or learning disability that may impact your course work, please contact Disability Support Services, ECC (Educational Communications Center) Building, room 128, (631) 632-6748. They will determine with you what accommodations are necessary and appropriate. All information and documentation is confidential. Students requiring emergency evacuation are encouraged to discuss their needs with their professors and Disability Support Services. For procedures and information, go to the following web site: http://www.sunysb.edu/ehs/fire/disabilities.shtml