Academic credit: Three semester hours
Place in the curriculum: This course is used to meet the requirements of a major in mathematics. It
assumes that the student has a background in college algebra or its equivalent, and is a prerequisite
for such courses as abstract algebra, real analysis, and complex analysis.
Course content outline:
A. Elementary logic
B. Sets
C. Relations and functions
D. Boolean algebra
E. The integers
F. The rational numbers
G. The real numbers
H. The complex numbers
Learning resources:
You will need the text "Structure of Mathematics" by Larry Matthews
Evaluation:
Learning will be measured using homework assignments and exams. Homework assignments will
be due on Thursday for the assignments given during the previous week. I will pick up and grade
your problems, but not necessarily every one. Show and organize your work. All exams will be
achievement exams and will be written as such. Including the final exam, there will be four exams
which will constitute 80% of your grade. The assignments will account for the other 20%.
Occasionally, I will present challenge problems which I will ask you to work on your own and
hand in at test time for bonus points. Otherwise, study together, but hand in your own work.
Grading: Grading will be on a percent scale.
93-100 A
90-92.9 A-
87-89.9 B+
83-86.9 B
80-82.9 B-
77-79.9 C+
73-76.9 C
70-72.9 C-
67-69.9 D+
63-66.9 D
60-62.9 D-
Below 60 F
Attendance policy:
You are expected to be in class. Absences make it difficult to do well. If you have more than
three unexcused absences, you will be dropped from the class. Notify me prior to the class if
you must be absent.
Instructor: Larry Matthews Office: Meyer Hall 314
Email: lmatthews@blc.edu Phone: 344-7587
2