MATH 430-31 DISCRETE MATH STRUCTURES

Text:Rosen, Discrete Mathematics and its Applications, 5th Ed.,McGraw Hill (Note: the 5th edition is significantly different from the 4th so the 4th will not really be satisfactory.) We will cover chapters 1-4 and 7, and, if time permits, parts of chaper 6.

Course Purpose To learn problem solving, mathematical reasoning and proof, mathematical communication, mathematical connections and mathematical representations. (NCTM standards 2000)

Performance Outcomes and Goals The student will develop skills in mathematical reasoning, combinatorial analysis, algorithmic thinking and modeling. The student will learn not only to solve problems but to analyze the problem and solution and to present his/her work concisely and precisely. The student will learn to become an independent worker and thinker.

Method of Evaluation

• About 40% of the course grade will be based on assigned and graded homework. Instructions and assignments are on the attached page. Students will need to turn in an average of 1 problem per week. Problems will be worth up to 15 points each as follows: 5 points for timely submission (problems submitted more than a week late will not be accepted), 5 points for mathematical correctness, 5 points for format and analysis.

• 10% will be for a portfolio assignment - this will be an assignment that will be retained for your permanent departmental portfolio. Details will be given later.

• 50% will be for two midterms (15% each) and final exam (20%). These exam will cover mainly proof form and proper formal mathematical communication. You need to learn to be precise, concise and be able to use proper notation and language. The date of the midterms will be announced. The exam will be at 4:00 PM Tuesday, December 9.

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