Grader
Abigail Turner - alt86@cornell.edu
Office hours: Wed. 9-11 am, Malott 218.
Required Text(s):
Beck and Geoghegan, "The Art of Proof"
One of the many features of mathematics that separates it from other disciplines is the prevalence and role of proofs. This use of proofs had had profound and long lasting consequences for mathematics. During the semester we have three goals directly related to proofs. One, learning how to follow a proof and recognize the difference between valid and invalid mathematical reasoning. Two, how to construct your own proofs. Three, how to communicate your proofs and mathematical ideas to others. This includes both writing and speaking. Along the way we will also see some interesting and perhaps surprising mathematics.
The class will be taught in an interactive format. Each topic will be introduced by a lecture containing several gaps and problems to think about. In the next class we will break into small groups to discuss how to fill in the gaps in the proofs and/or problems. After this the class will produce solutions.
There will be at least one in class prelim. The date(s) will be determined after the semester starts.
Short prelim (approx. 30 minutes) Oct. 7 in class.
Second Short Prelim (approx. 35 minutes) Nov. 11 in class
There is an optional paper. Grading weights without the paper: Final 37.5%, Prelims (combined) 31.25 %, Hw 25 %, Class participation 6.25 %. With paper: Final 30 %, Prelims (combined) 25 %, Paper 20 %, Hw 20%. Class participation 5 %
The final exam will be cumulative. It is scheduled for Dec. 15, 9-11:30 am.
There will be regular homework assignments throughout the term. You will have an opportunity to revise your solutions after your hoomework is graded.
hw1 - resubmissions due 9/30
hw2 - resubmissions due 10/9
hw3 - resubmissions due 10/18
No homework week of Sept. 30-Oct. 7
Academic integrity:
For many assignments you will be encouraged to work in groups and use whatever sources you can find. However, ALL WRITING should be done individually. The only appropriate sources for assistance in writing are the grader(s) and Prof. Swartz. ALL other people or sources will be considered a violation of Cornell's code of academic integrity.