Linear Algebra

This course has two goals: (1) to introduce to abstract mathematics, in this course you will learn about the "art of mathematical proof". Your assignments and exams will be evaluated on your ability to write proofs as well as in your knowledge of linear algebra; (2) To introduce you to Linear algebra. What is linear algebra?

Linear algebra is the study of vector spaces and linear transfomations. A vector space is a structure that abstracts and generalizes familiar objects from geometry and algebra. A linear transformation is a function between two vector spaces that preserves the structure.

Linear algebra is one of the most powerful mathematical tools used widely throught science and mathematics. This is one of my favorite subjects and I hope that you will like it too! I hope the following quote will inspire you to participate in this course.

"Mathematics is not for spectators; in order to gain in understanding, confidence, and enthusiasm one has to participate." M.A. Armstrong

Required

• Linear Algebra by Friedberg, Insel, and Spence

Of course, I invite you to visit the mathematics library (located in the second floor of Bradley Hall) and become acquainted with as many linear algebra books as you wish.

Scheduled Lectures

• MWF 1:45-2:50, Bradley 104
• (xhour) Thursday, 1:00-1:50 Bradley 104
  Note: We will frequently meet during the x-hour to go over problem sets or catch up if we fall behind.

Professor Rosa Orellana

Office: 305 Bradley Hall Office Hours Wed. 9:45-10:45 Tues. 2-3 Thurs. 2-3 By Appointment

Phone: 646 - 2430 or BlitzMail:Rosa.C.Orellana@Dartmouth.EDU (preferred)

I encourage you to come to my office to discuss homework problems (yes, you can come before the homework is due), things that you don't understand in the course, opportunities for an REU (Research Experience for undergraduates) or if you are wondering what course to take next and need a little guidance.

There will be two (probably part in-class and part take-home) exams and a final examination. They will probably be held during the weeks of Oct. 21 and November 18. The exact dates will be announced during class at least one week before the exam.

The Registrar has schedule our final exam for Saturday December 7 at 1:30 pm. Please, do not make plans to leave Hanover before the exam.

Project

There is a project for this class. Click here to find out more about it.

Homework Policy and Guidelines

• Written homework will be assigned daily and will be collected during the next class meeting at the beginning of class.

  You can use books from the library as a resource in doing your homework. If you do this, please write in your homework the citations of the books you have used.

• All homework assignments will be posted on the course assignment's web page.
• Late homework will not be accepted under any circumstance. Since this seems harsh, I will allow you to drop 3 homeworks with lowest scores.
• Unexcused late and missing papers count zero.
• Homework is to be written neatly using both sides of 8 1/2 x 11 inch paper. Do not use paper from a spiral notebook unless you can tear off the ragged edge. All papers are to be stapled.
• Use English. If you can't read your solutions aloud as fluently as if you were reading your textbook, try using nouns and verbs in your write ups!

If you do not follow this guidelines, your homework will be returned to you ungraded.

The course grade will be based upon the scores on the homework, two exams, participation (this means attending class and office hours as well as asking and responding to questions), the project and the final exam.

Exams (2)	20% (each)
Homework	10%
Project	15%
Participation	5%
Final Exam	30%

On Exams: No help given or received from anyone. You may not use books or notes during in-class exams. For take-home exams you can use your class notes only.

On Homework: Collaboration is permitted and encouraged, but NO COPYING . In other words, you should feel free to talk to other students while you are in the process of thinking about a problem. However, when it comes time to write up your solutions, you should do this by yourself without outside assistance.

Students with disabilities who will be taking this course and may need disability-related classroom accommodations are encouraged to make an appointment to see their instructor as soon as possible, certainly within the first two weeks of the course. Also, they should stop by the Academic Skills Center in Collis Center to register for support services.

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