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{\bf\centerline{Math 361: Honors Algebra}}
{\bf\centerline{Fall, 1997}}
\medskip {\bf Meeting Time:} MWF 10:40--11:30 a.m.
\smallskip {\bf Meeting Place:} CCMB 227 
\smallskip {\bf Instructor:} Matthew Dyer
\smallskip\hskip 1cm {\bf Office:} CCMB 201 (near Math. library)
\smallskip\hskip 1cm{\bf Office hours:} MW 9:00--10:00 or by appointment
\smallskip\hskip 1cm {\bf Phone:} (219) 631-6082
\smallskip\hskip 1cm {\bf Email:} Matthew.J.Dyer.1@nd.edu
\smallskip{\bf Textbook:} Abstract Algebra (Third edition) by I.~N. Herstein,
available in bookstore.
\smallskip{\bf Course Content} We will introduce some of the basic notions of
algebra, such as groups, rings, fields and homomorphims. In the text, we will
cover approximately Chapters 1--4.
\smallskip{\bf Assessment} Your letter grade for the course will be based
on your total point score out of 500, determined as follows;

\hskip 1cm Two in class exams, worth 100 points each.

\hskip 1cm A cumulative final exam worth 150 points

\hskip 1cm Graded homework worth 150 points.

Grade cutoffs for the major grades (A,B,C,D,F) will be assigned for each exam
so you may judge your exam performance.

\smallskip{\bf Exam dates:}

\hskip 1cm  Exam 1; Monday,  October  13th.

\hskip 1cm  Exam 2; Monday,  November 24th. 

\hskip 1cm  Final Exam; In final exam week December 15-19th. Precise date to
be announced. 

\smallskip{\bf Homework} 
The most effective way of
learning mathematics is by solving a  range of problems involving the
subject matter you are learning. By doing this, you consolidate your
understanding of the material, begin to build a useful mathematical intuition
for the subject matter, and gain experience in problem solving.
For these reasons (as well as its contribution to your assessment) the homework
should be regarded as an integral part of the course.

 Additionally,
your mathematical understanding is of little use if it cannot be imparted to
others, and carefuly writing homework solutions will develop your skills in 
mathematical communication. You should make every effort to make your written
homework solutions as clear as possible. Some points to consider in doing this
 are that your solutions should be written in complete sentences, with major
portions separated into paragraphs, all symbols you use should be defined
carefully and you should provide justifications for all major steps you use.
The writing style in the proofs, definitions and examples in the textbook
provides a useful model.
\smallskip{\bf Homework Policy} 
Homework problems will be assigned regularly (usually
daily) and will be collected weekly on Wednesdays. Selected (but previously
unannounced) problems will be chosen from each week's homework for grading.
If you are having trouble with a homework problem, you should 
meet with me to discuss the problem before it is due for collection, and
I'll give an extension of time if necessary. Late homework will not  otherwise
be accepted without a valid (e.g. medical) excuse. 

\smallskip{\bf Honor Code} This course will be conducted under the Honor Code.
Copying another student's work in an exam is of course a violation of the code.

Discussion of homework problems with other classmembers is permitted, as long as
your  written homework is prepared by you and reflects your own
final understanding of the homework problems. I would even 
  encourage you to discuss homework with one another
and with me, as it is a good way both to learn the material and gain facility in
communicating it to others.  However, direct copying of another student's
 written
work is a violation of the Honor Code. 

   
  
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