Math 304-06: Linear Algebra

Fall 2021


To the main 304 course site for Fall 2021.


Teacher

  Thomas Zaslavsky
  Office: WH-216
  Email: zaslav@math.binghamton.edu

Office hours

My regular office hours are M, W, F, 1:00-2:30. You do not need an appointment. If I'm not in my office, I am probably nearby and will be back shortly...
Also by appointment at other times.

Face coverings

Your face mask is required to cover both nose and mouth and to be on at all times during class. That means no eating. You will not be allowed in class if you don't follow this rule. I'm sure I don't have to explain why.

Course description

Syllabus

The textbook is Linear Algebra, Fourth Edition, by Jim Hefferon. A free e-book is available. You can order a cheap print copy for around $22.

For the list of topics and sections covered, see the main 304 site.

Course goals

Develop theoretical and computational skills in basic linear algebra.

Homework Readings and Problems

I will not cover everything in lectures; you have to learn a lot by reading for yourself.

I encourage you to form study groups. Discussion with other students is a big part of learning math.

I expect everyone to read the assigned sections carefully before the lecture.

Supplementary topics are found in our special supplement.

Homework assignments

The homework is on WebWork (see the main 304 site). You are supposed to do the homework. I highly recommend the problems in the textbooks (see the main 304 page for the list). I do encourage you to work together. That does not include looking up solutions on line (or off line), not even at Khan Academy, whose solutions often are not good. If you find a solution on line, DO NOT USE IT. I know from experience that using outside resources tends to lower your grade. Instead, email me or see me in person.

Webwork recommended problems

For Test 1: Sets 1, 3, 4 ##1-6, 6.

For Test 2: Sets 4, 5, 7, 8.

For Test 3: Sets 9-11 and part of 12.

For Final Exam: Set 12, Basic 1 and 2 (as reminders of early September) if you have not done them.

Schedule

The times are approximate. We are not exactly following the textbook in class, although we are hewing close to it.

Examinations and grading

Quizzes

There will be many short quizzes. There are no make-up quizzes. There will be quizzes approximately weekly, usually on Friday. The past quizzes are available here:
Quiz 1 | Quiz 2 | Quiz 3 | Quiz 4 | Quiz 5 & Solutions | Quiz 6 & Solutions | Quiz 7 solution | Quiz 8 solution | Quiz 9 | Quiz 10 | Quiz 11 | Quiz 12 & Solutions

Exam dates and coverage

See the main course page. Details will appear.

Exam policy

See the 304 course site. Notably:

Classroom behavior


Always turn your cell phone to silent before entering the classroom. No cell phone use is allowed except for classwork, such as consulting the textbook. If you do use your phone otherwise, I may confiscate your device for the rest of the class.


To the main 304 course site.