MATH 332-31 Foundations of Algebra II
Summer 1996

Professor Barry Dayton
Office Hours

My web address is
http://www.ecnet.net/users/ubdayton/students
Text and materials
Text substitute: We will use a combination of notes taken in class (see "portfolio" below) and the instructors notes. There are three ways to obtain the instructor's notes:
  1. Download them from the Web. However the notes are in DVI format so you must have a DVI reader. There is one available in the computer labs but is awkward to use. Instructions are on my website on how to download your own DVI reader.
  2. Make your own copies: I will loan you a copy and you can make your own copy on campus.
  3. Buy a copy from me: I will sell them at the price my commercial copier charges me, I estimate about $.07 per page.
Computer:We will use the MAPLE package. MAPLE is available in the computer labs. Student versions for your home computer (PC and Mac) are available from the bookstore at around $90. Some documentation on how to get started in MAPLE is available at my website.

Objective of Course
To learn about the theory of polynomials of several variables, both the algebra and the geometry. We will study both the classical theory and the modern approach.

Evaluation
You will be evaluated on daily work (40%), Computer assignments (20%), and a portfolio (40%).
Daily work may involve pretests, quizzes, homework or group work. Daily work will not be announced in advance and if you are not present you can not get credit. The lowest two daily work grades will be thrown out. Computer assignments must be turned in no later than the class period following the date due to get any credit at all. Some computer assignments may involve MAPLE, others may involve use of the World Wide Web.
The portfolio will be an important part of your grade and may well be the difference between an A, B or C grade. The portfolio will contain the instructors notes, class notes, assignments handed back. There must be a permanent binder, loose leaf or otherwise. The portfolio must be carefully organized. It will be your permanent record of having attended this course. I will give your portfolio a preliminary check in late June. The final portfolio check will be by appointment on August 7.