Introduction to Modern Mathematics and its Applications – Spring 2006
- Section 002: 10:20 – 11:20, MWF, Swart 203
- Section 003: 12:40 – 1:40, MWF, Swart 102
- Section 004: 1:50 – 2:50, MWF, Swart 102
This course is designed to bring the excitement of contemporary mathematical ideas to the non-specialist and to help develop the capacity to engage in logical thinking and the ability to read mathematical information more critically. We will investigate a broad range of mathematical topics that may be encountered in your day-to-day life, including voting systems, apportionment, and networks. Many of the mathematical concepts that we will consider may be completely new to you. In fact, much of it has only been discovered within the last 20 years! Nevertheless, the course material will be accessible to anyone with an active curiosity, a willingness to work hard, and a background in basic algebra. Interesting and deep mathematics often occurs in places where you might least expect it!
Mathematics is best learned by doing it! Therefore, you will be active learners in PBIS 188. Some lectures will occur, however, much of the course will be student-generated, involving cooperative group work and class discussions.
Instructor: Mike Skowronski
Office: Swart 233; 424-7347 (Home: (715) 526-2780) (If you need to reach me and it is between the hours of 8:00AM and 4:30 PM, you may call 424-1333 and leave a message)
E-mail: skowrons<at>uwosh.edu (best way to reach me)
Office Hours: M: 9:00 -10:10, 11:30 - 12:30; W: 8:00 – 10:10, 11:30 – 12:30; Th: 10:00 – 2:00; F: 8:00 – 10:10, 11:30 – 12:30
Texts
- Excursions in Modern Mathematics, 5th edition, by Peter Tannenbaum and Robert Arnold. (4th edition will work as well)
- PBIS 188 Supplementary Materials packet.
Calculator
A scientific calculator would be very helpful.
Course Topics
- Unit 1: What is Mathematics? (Supplementary problems)
- Unit 2: Mathematics of Social Choice (Chapters 1, 2, 4)
- Unit 3: Management Science (Chapters 5, 6, 7)
Assessment
Exams
There will be 3 exams for the course. Each exam will be worth between 50 and 75 points. Arrangements for conflicts due to University sponsored events must be made in advance.
- EXAM 1 – Supplementary problems, Chapter 1 (on or around 2/24)
- EXAM 2 – Chapters 2, 4 (on or around 3/31)
- EXAM 3 – Chapters 5, 6, 7 (on 5/10)
Attendance
I have found a strong correlation between attendance and final grade. If you cannot attend class, please try to inform me as soon as possible either via e-mail, calling during my office hours, or by calling 424-1333 (from 8 AM to 4:30 PM) and leaving a message. It is your responsibility to obtain any missed notes and homework assignments!
Quizzes
There will be some short quizzes given during the semester. Some will be announced and some will be unannounced. Missed quizzes cannot be made up except for absences due to extenuating circumstances.
Homework
Homework will be assigned. The problems assigned will be similar to test and quiz questions. Late homework will not be accepted except in the most unusual of circumstances!
Final Grade
Your final grade will be calculated as follows:
- PARTICIPATION & ATTENDANCE: 20%
- EXAM 1: 20%
- EXAM 2: 20%
- EXAM x%
- HOMEWORK & QUIZZES: 20%
Scale
Grades will be assigned according to the following scales
A: 93-100%
AB: 87-92%
B: 83-86%
BC: 77-82%
C: 70-76%
D: 60-69%
F: Below 60%
HOMEWORK EXERCISES
| Chapter | Practice problemsFrom textbook | Assigned problemsfrom textbook | Assigned Problems from Packet |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 13, 15, 17, 19, 23,25, 29, 33, 35, 39, 45, 47, 49, 51, 53, 65 | 14, 16, 20, 24, 40, 48, 50, 52 | 2-5, 19, 24abpage – 59 |
| 2 | 1, 3, 5, 9, 17, 19, 23, 25, 37, 41, 45, 47, 49 | 12, 20, 28d, 34, 46, 48, 50 | 5, 8, 10page - 62 |
| 4 | 1, 3, 5, 7, 13, 15, 17, 23, 25, 31, 33, 57 | 10, 14, 16, 40 | 1, 6, 16page – 64 |
| 5 | 3, 5, 9, 11, 19, 23, 33, 41, 43, 45 | 10, 22, 42, 44 | 5, 7-9, 14, 16, 19page – 68 |
| 6 | 1, 9, 11, 21, 23, 29, 35, 41 | 2, 20, 30, 38 | 4, 7, 16, 17page – 73 |
| 7* | 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 13, 19, 23, 61, 63 | 4, 6, 24, 26 | 1, 4, 5, 15, 18, 19page - 78 |
* - if time permits
HOMEWORK DUE DATES (APPROXIMATE)
CHAPTER 1: 2/17
CHAPTER 2: 3/8
CHAPTER 4: 3/24
CHAPTER 5: 4/12
CHAPTER 6: 4/28
CHAPTER 7: 5/5