Office
phone: (708) 524 6838
Email:
ziessara@email.dom.edu
Office
Hours: 9.30-10.20 MWF
12.30-1.20 MWF
9.30-11.20 R
Lectures: MWF 1.30-2.20p.m.
Text: A First Course in Abstract Algebra by Joseph R.Rotman
Chapters studied: 1,2,3 and parts of 4.
Prerequisites: Mathematics 230 and 262
Course Objectives: The objectives of this
course are to define the algebraic structures of groups, rings and fields, with
an emphasis on examples; to demonstrate the importance of the axiomatic method
in mathematics; and to show the connection of this theory with some classical
problems in mathematics, such as duplication of the cube, squaring the circle
or the impossibility of solving a quintic with radicals.
1.
Elementary
Number Theory
2.
Groups
3.
Rings
and Fields
4. Classical Problems
Course Requirements: There will be a test at
the end of each chapter. These will be equally weighted and will together count
for 75% of the final grade. Homework assignments will count for 20%. The
remaining 5% of the grade will be made up from several short quizzes, attendance
and class participation.
Attendance: Attendance will be taken
at the beginning of each class. Should you be unable to attend I expect you to
call me and explain your absence. Unexplained absences or frequent lateness may
affect your grade. More than
8
absences will result in a course grade of F.
Examinations: There will be 2 midterms and a final. Make-up exams will not be
given except in extraordinary circumstances and with prior approval. To arrange for a make-up exam you must call me or see
me before the scheduled examination.
Missed examinations automatically result in a grade of 0.
Quizzes: There will be a few short quizzes during the semester. They will last
approximately 20 minutes. At the end of the semester your worst score will be
thrown out and the rest averaged. A missed quiz will count as the one
thrown
out. Every possible effort should be made to be in class for the quizzes: there
will be no make-ups.
Homework: Homework will be assigned
at least once a week and, unless otherwise stated, will be due one week from
the day that it is assigned. Late homework will be accepted for credit only if you obtain prior approval. No homework
will be accepted more than 1 class period late.
Grading Scale:
90-100 A
80-89 B
70-79 C
60-69
D
Below
60 F
I
may curve the grades at the end of the semester if it is to your benefit.