Contact Me: 214-5 Elizabeth Hall ext. 7551 campus box 8340 http://www.stetson.edu/~mhale/

Office Hours: Mon 2:30 - 3:20 Tue 9:30 - 10:20 and 2:00 - 2:50 Wed 11:00 - 11:50 Fri 11:00 - 11:50 or by appointment

Course Overview   This course is for students working on a degree in mathematics and for others with the necessary background who are interested. The prerequisites are Multivariable Calculus (MS 203), Linear Algebra (MS 245), and Introduction to Logic and Proof (MS 255). It is highly recommended for students going to graduate school in mathematics or related areas.

The text is Fraleigh, A First Course in Abstract Algebra, 7th ed. You should be familiar with Chapter 0 already. Please read the book as well as participating in class. A calculator that recognizes fractions and complex numbers may occasionally be convenient. The TI-83 (Plus) serves this purpose, and TI-83 instructions appear on the web.

Grading   Your grade will be based on three tests of increasing worth: 10%, 15%, 20%; homework 15%; class participation 15%; and final exam 25%. The grading scale is A: 90% - 100%, B: 80% - 89%, etc.

Policies and Due Dates   Attendance is assumed and will not be graded, except you must be present to "participate." You may ask questions about homework during class and office hours. Please come prepared. Most of the class time will be spent with you presenting homework problems, and answering each others' questions. I will not lecture per se, but will introduce new material and give you guidelines for reading the text. Homework write-ups are due two class periods after they are assigned. No exceptions. Please see the homework guidelines. You will be given periodic updates on your homework and participation grades.

Each test will be in two parts. There is a short-answer portion given in class. It will consist of definitions, examples, true/false questions, calculations, etc. You must take this portion during the scheduled time unless you have a valid excuse cleared with me in advance. Within several days, you should schedule a private oral exam with me that will consist of proofs and proof synopses. You need not produce an elegant form for these proofs – what count are the ideas and logical stucture. In-class test dates are: Wednesday 9/13, Friday 10/6, Wednesday 11/8, and Wednesday 12/13, 1-3 pm (final exam).

You may not use your book or notes during an in-class test. Bring your book and notes to the orals. You may use any source for homework, but you must cite all of your sources, including other people. Extensive use of other people's answers will inevitably result in poor test grades. I support the Stetson University Honor System.

Communication   I use Blackboard to communicate important information. You are responsible for reading your email and configuring Blackboard with your preferred email address. If you want grades or other confidential information sent through email, I will use your Stetson email address or Blackboard.

Abstract Algebra is an upper-level course for mature learners. I will provide stimulus and help, but you are responsible for learning the material. The best way is to devote at least six hours per week outside of class to read the book and do the homework. Visit my office often, and browse my web site to find out more about me and about the course.

fall 2006 syllabus
homework guidelines
instructions for the TI-83
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