Modern Algebra I
Fall 1999
Section A	MWF, 11:00, MAK 1119
Section B	MWF, 3:00, MAK 2322

---

Instructor:	Dr. David Austin
	MAK 2273, 895-3431
	david@merganser.math.gvsu.edu
Office Hours:	M, W, 10:00 - 10:50
	T, R, 1:00 - 1:50

Prereqisites: Math 210, and 227 or 225

Text: Abstract Algebra: An Introduction, Thomas Hungerford

Course Content and Goals: This course is an introduction to algebraic structures and their wonderful properties. You are probably familiar with many properties of the integers. As it happens, many other objects of mathematical interest, such as polynomials and matrices, share these properties too. In this course, we will build a common framework from which to study and investigate these types of objects. Surprisingly, there are some very real and interesting applications of these ideas.

This course assumes that you have successfully completed Math 210, Communicating in Mathematics, and have some familiarity with reading and writing proofs. We will build on this familiarity to provide a strong foundation for the subject giving careful proofs for many important theorems. In addition, you will often be expected to provide proofs in homework exercises.

Beyond that, we will try to build a strong intuitive feeling for the material as well. How do mathematicians determine what to prove? How can we translate an idea into a mathematical proof? These are important questions which we will try to help answer.

Grading: Your final grade will be determined in the following way:

The final grade assigned to you will not be lower than that computed in this way. However, I reserve the right to raise your grade if you are an active, thoughtful participant in class and there is evidence you are working consistently and with care. Homework: You will be given a homework assignment related to the material discussed in class each week. From this assignment, you will hand in a collection of specially noted problems which will be graded and returned to you. Your grade will primarily be determined by the correctness of your work. However, you are expected to write your submissions clearly and neatly and this will determine a portion of your grade. Projects: In the middle of the term, you will be given projects which you will complete with a group. These will be a bit more involved than a typical homework assignment and are intended to give you a deeper experience of Algebra. Your group is expected to work together cooperatively and submit a single report. All members of the group will receive the same grade unless one member or more fail to contribute an equal portion of the work. Exams: There will be three exams scheduled throughout the term each lasting 50 minutes. These will test your understanding at a deeper level than the quizzes. The dates of the exams are: September 24, October 22, November 17. Note well: No makeup exams will be given. If you are unable to attend an exam, it is your responsibility to notify the instructor prior to the exam so that suitable arrangments may be made. Final Exam: The final exam will be Wednesday, December 15 from 10:00 - 11:50 am for Section A and Thursday, December 16 from 2:00 - 3:50 pm for Section B.

Other Notes:

Academic Integrity: One of the best ways to learn mathematics is to talk and work with your classmates, and you are encouraged to do so. It is important, however, to understand the difference between collaboration and plagiarism. Any work which is not explicitly part of a group project must be written in your own words and reflect your own understanding; in the same way, all participants in a group project are expect to contribute equally. Homework: Not all of the assigned homework problems will be collected. However, you are strongly encouraged to attempt each of them as if it were; this is the only way for you to gain an adequate understanding of the material. You should plan on working at least two hours outside of class for each hour we have together in class.

Drop Date: The deadline for withdrawing from this course is Friday, October 22 at 5 pm.