Syllabus

MWF 9:10-10:10 a.m., Howard Hall 242

Wherever you see symmetry in the world, you are seeing abstract algebra. From the shapes of molecules, to the encription that secures the internet, to the possible coalitions in congress - all of these are applications of abstract algebra. This is the first in a two semester sequence focused on algebraic structures. Beginning with the definition of a group we will examine subgroups, quotient groups, homomorphisms and the Isomorphism Theorems. We will then see how all of these ideas can be extended to the setting of rings and fields.

These are the revised office hours. M 2:30-3:30, T 9:40-10:40 & 1:00-2:00, W 1:00-2:00, Th 9:40-10:40 & 2:30-3:30, F 1:00-2:00; and by appointment.

There will be two midterm exams in this course. The first will have both an in-class timed component and a take-home component. The second midterm and the final exam will be take-home exams. See the Tentative Schedule and Homework page for information on when the exams will occur. Note that the due date for the final exam is completely inflexible. Late exams will not be accepted.

Your final letter grade for Math 421 will be based on the weighted total of the scores below. (Note that final grades are NOT based on fixed, pre-determined percentages, however 90% guarantees a minimum grade of A-, 80% a minimum grade of B-, etc.) See page 27 of the College Catalog for an explanation of what each letter grade signifies.

    Homework: 30%

    Midterms: 21% each

    Final Exam: 28%

Academic honesty is expected of all Lewis & Clark students. In this course, homework can and should be worked on and discussed with others, but the work you hand in must be your own. No form of collaboration will be permitted on take home exams. You are permitted to use the text and your notes however.