Goals:
At the end of the course, students should be able to
  • make calculations with agility, accuracy, intelligence and flexibility;
  • explain the basic concepts clearly and reason logically with them.
Expectations:
To achieve these goals, students are expected to
  • read the textbook
  • attend the lectures and labs
  • complete all homework assignments
  • discuss mathematics with other students
Assessment:
The course grades will be computed as follows:
  • 15% Homework
  • 30% Midterm exam
  • 55% Final exam
Homework:
Weekly problem sets consist of approximately 3 questions. Intended to be challenging, they may ask you to apply a technique in a mildly novel context or combine concepts that you have only seen before in isolation. Problems sets are posted in PDF format. Your browser can be trained to automatically open these files with the free program Acrobat Reader. Homework will be collected at the beginning of class; late homework will not be accepted. Your best ten problem sets will determine your homework grade. Graded homework can be picked up in the Math 312 boxes outside of 201 Jeffery Hall.
Lab:
The weekly lab will have a tutorial format and provide an opportunity to review some of the ideas from class. Labs are not meant to answer specific questions from the homework.
Help:
Help is available if you have trouble with homework or lecture material.
  • The lab is a good place to ask questions.
  • The WebCT Bulletin Board allows students to discuss problems.
  • The teaching assistants and the instructor have regular office hours.
  • You may also take advantage of the Math Help & Study Centre (201 Jeffery Hall). You may drop by whenever the Help Centre is open; no appointment is necessary.
  • For more tips on how to study mathematics, see Success in Mathematics.
Written Work:
We write to communicate. Please bear this in mind as you complete assignments and take exams. Work must be neat and legible to receive consideration. You must explain your work in order to obtain full credit; an assertion is not an answer. For specific suggestions, see A guide to writing in mathematics classes.
Disabilities:
Students with disabilities, who will be taking this course and may need disability-related classroom accommodations, are encouraged to make an appointment to see the instructor as soon as possible. Also, stop by the Health, Counseling and Disability Services Office to register for support services.
Academic Integrity:
It is the obligation of each student to understand the University's policies regarding academic honesty and to uphold these standards. Students are encouraged to talk about the problems, but should write up the solutions individually. Students should acknowledge the assistance of any books, software, students or professors.
Technology:
Students are encouraged to use calculators and computer algebra systems to explore linear algebra. However, these aids will not be allowed during the test or exam.