Information on Classical Algebra

Math 326 (2627) -- Math 326Z (2629)

January 19, 2000

TIME OF MEETING: Mon, Wed, & Fri 11:15-12:10
PLACE: Earth Science 139
INSTRUCTOR:
W. F. Hammond, ES 137A
Phone: 442-4625
Email: hammond@math.albany.edu
Office hours: Mon. & Wed. 2:30 - 3:30, 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.

The writing of simple computer programs to perform algorithms will be a part of the course.

TEST SCHEDULE & GRADING:

EventWeightDate
Final examination100Friday, May 12 10:30-12:30
Midterm test50Wed., March 15 in class
Occasional quizzes (5 @ 5 each)25as announced (with short notice)
Assignments to be submitted25as announced
Total weight200

WRITING INTENSIVE REQUIREMENTS

Students enrolled in the writing intensive version of the course, Math 326Z, will not receive a grade higher than C- without satisfactory use of mathematical English on tests and quizzes and particularly on the submitted assignments.

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

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