AMTH 140L Introduction to Computer Algebra (1cr hr) SPRING 2006

T/TH 4:30-5:45 ADMN 213

Instructor: David Jaspers, 237E ADMN

Telephone: 641-3525(off), 663-4721 (home)

E-mail: davidj@usca.edu Web http://www.usca.edu/math/%7Emathdept/dgj/

Office Hours: MW 2:00-4:00, T/TH 11:00-12:00, F 11:00-1:00 or by appointment

This is an 8 week course. The last day to drop the class without penalty is Friday 2/3/05. The last class meeting is Thursday, 2/23. The final exam is in two parts (since the usual 2.5 hour exam time block is not available): part 1 is Tuesday 2/28/05, 4:30 – 5:45, and part 2 is Thursday 3/2/05, 4:30 – 5:45.

Required text: The Student’s Introduction to Mathematica, by Bruce F. Torrence

and Eve A. Torrence.

Prerequisite: Placement above AMTH 111 and 112, or grade of C or better in

AMTH 111 and AMTH 112; or concurrent enrollment in either AMTH 111 or AMTH 112.

Course Description: A laboratory course to introduce a computer algebra system in various fields of mathematics such as algebra, trigonometry and calculus with emphasis on how to use the software to solve complex problems symbolically, numerically and graphically. AMTH 140L is highly recommended for students entering the calculus sequence (141, 142, 241).

Course Objectives: To gain experience solving problems using the computer algebra system Mathematica in a variety of areas of mathematics; to gain experience in written communication using mathematical tools and concepts.

Group work: Studying with one or more classmates is recommended. However,

the work you turn in must be your own and not copied from someone else.

Tests and Grading: Homework and classwork, 40%; one test, 30%; Final Exam, 30%.

Grading Scale 90-100 A 70-74 C

85-89 B+ 65-69 D+

80-84 B 60-64 D

75-79 C+ 0-59 F

Homework: Homework will be due each class except when there is a test. Late homework might not be accepted. Speak to the instructor right away if you have some problem. Turn in your assignment through the Shared area of the LAN under Amth140w, as explained by the instructor. Keep a copy of your work in your private disk space on the USCA LAN in case it is lost. Working with the LAN and using private disk space will be explained by the instructor.

Make-ups: Make up exams will only be given in cases of illness or other written excuse. If you must miss the exam, contact me as soon as possible after the exam to arrange a make up. Exams not made up within one week of the regular test will be recorded as 0’s.

Attendance Policy: I may occasionally take attendance. It is highly recommended that the student not miss any class. However, the Attendance Policy established by the Department of Mathematical Sciences states that the maximum number of unexcused absences allowed in this class before a penalty is imposed is four. Please refer to the 2005-2006 Bulletin, page 36, for further information. If you miss class, it is your responsibility to get caught up on any material covered, as well as homework. See me to get caught up, or get a copy of one of your classmate’s notes..

Academic Honesty: Please read and review the Academic Code of Conduct relating to Academic Integrity located in the 2005-2006 Student Handbook, page 18. If you are found to be in violation of this Code of Integrity, a grade of F (0) will be given for the work. Additionally, a grade of F may be assigned for the course and/or further sanctions may be pursued.

Cell phones and pagers: As a courtesy to the class, cell phones and pagers should be placed in such a mode that they will not disturb the class. Under NO circumstances are calls to be placed or taken in the classroom. Students who are on call as a condition of their employment or other circumstance will leave the classroom in order to receive a call.

Students with Disabilities: If you have a physical, psychological, and/or learning disability which might affect your performance in this class, please contact the Office of Disability Services, 126A B&E, (803) 641-3609, as soon as possible. The Disability Services Office will determine appropriate accommodations based on medical documentation. If you are registered with Disability Services and have an accommodation sheet, please see me after the first class or phone me (803-641-3525) the first day to set up an appointment as soon as possible. If you are registered with Disability Services and have an accommodation sheet, please see me after the first class or phone me (803-641-3525) the first day to set up an appointment as soon as possible.