Information on Classical Algebra
Math 326 (2527) — Math 326Z (2529)

August 26, 2008

MEETING TIME: Tues. & Thurs. 1:15 – 2:35 p.m.
PLACE: Earth Science 143
INSTRUCTOR:
W. F. Hammond, ES 137B
Phone: 442-4625
Email: hammond
Web: http://math.albany.edu/~hammond/
Office hours: Tue & Thu 3:05–3:35, Wed 2:15–3:15, or by appt.
TEXT:
Lindsay Childs, A Concrete Introduction to Higher Algebra, 2nd edition, Springer, 1995.
PRE-REQUISITE: Math 113 or Math 119 (two semesters of calculus)

COURSE OBJECTIVE:

Algebra as the study of groups, rings and fields is approached through a careful analysis of many concrete classical examples. The central focus is the list of properties common to the ordinary integers and the real polynomials as examples of rings.

These common properties arise from the existence in both cases of a procedure for long division. Divisibility, primality, factorization, and quotient structures (the arithmetic entities given by congruence for a given modulus) are common themes.

The quotient structures themselves become objects of study in the course.

TEST SCHEDULE & GRADING:

EventWeightDate
Final examination100Fri., Dec 12, 10:30 – 12:30
Midterm test50Thu., Oct 23, in class
Occasional quizzes (10 @ 5 each)50as announced (with little or no notice)
Assignments to be submitted (5 @ 10 each)50as announced
Writing Intensive Requirements—see the separate sheet
Total weight250

ATTENDANCE:

Attendance at class meetings is a requirement for passing the course unless the student has been granted a special exception. Unexcused absence may result in failure or grade reduction. There will be no excused absences from tests except for compelling emergencies and religious holidays.

ALTERNATE SOURCES:

G. Chrystal, Algebra: An Elementary Textbook (2 vols.), Chelsea
M. R. Schroeder, Number Theory in Science and Communication, Springer
E. Weiss, First Course in Algebra and Number Theory, Academic Press