MATH 251-01 DISCRETE MATHEMATICS

Text: Discrete Mathematics with Applications, 2nd Ed., Susanna Epp, PWS

Course Description and Topics Covered This course develop mathematical reasoning and mathematical communication skills, particularly to prepare students to take higher level mathematics courses. We will cover Chapters 1 -- 5 carefully and topics from Chapters 7,10 and 11.

Performance Outcomes and Goals The student will be able to express himself/herself in precise mathematical language, read mathematics, including proofs, and be able to formulate simple proofs. In addition to the requirements listed below under "Assessment" to pass the course the student will be required to demonstrate understanding of the words "or" and "implies" and to handle statements with one quantifier. For a "B" the student must demonstrate the ability to handle doubly quantified statements and "A" students must be able to handle triply quantified statements.

Assessment About 40% of the course grade will be based on daily class work. This includes unannounced quizzes, pretests, board work, and possibly group work. There will be no makeups for work missed. Several grades will be dropped but regular attendance will be necessary for a good grade in this course. There will be 3 tests each counting 20%. The dates of the first two tests will be arranged with Test 1 shortly after we finish chapter 3, and Test 2 after we finish chapter 5. The third test will be Thursday, December 11 at 10 AM (this will not be handed back).

Note that I do not give "D" grades and "I" grades are given only in accordance with rules given in the University Catalog.