General Information


Homework Assignments


Math 32 Homepage

Math 32: Linear Geometry

Instructor: Emily Proctor

Office: 1S, Bradley Hall

Meeting time: MWF 11:15-12:20, Bradley 13

x-Hour: Tu 12:00-12:50

Office hours: Tu 10:00-11:00, F 9:00-10:00, or by appointment.

Email: emily.proctor@dartmouth.edu


Textbook


We will be reading from Affine and Projective Geometry by M. K. Bennett.


General Course Outline


In this course, we will begin by discussing affine planes and examining their properties. We will then explore how to coordinatize these planes using familiar algebraic objects. Finally, if time permits, we will discuss projective planes.


Homework


There will be problems assigned at the end of each class meeting, to be collected at the following class meeting. I will score each problem on a 0-1-2 basis; 0 for not done or very little work attempted, 1 for a fair amount of work though some incorrect, and 2 for a perfect or very nearly perfect solution. A running tally will be kept for each student and will be used in grading at the end of the term.

I have chosen this scoring system to emphasize the importance of homework in this class. Math can only be learned through working problems, thus it is important for you to keep up with the assignments and attempt all problems. Working the problems will force you to become familiar with the mathematical objects with which we will be working. This in turn will make the class meetings more worthwhile and enjoyable.

You are highly encouraged to work together on your homework. However, the final copy you hand in must be your own work and reflect your own understanding of the material.

NOTE: You may hand in up to two homework assignments one class period late. After that, any late homework will not be accepted.


Examinations


There will be two midterm exams and one final exam. All three will be take-home exams. The first midterm will fall near the end of the third week of the term. The second will fall near the end of the sixth week. I will give early notification of the exact date in each case. The final will be passed out at the end of the term and will be due during the final exam period.

You are expected to work alone on exams. You may come to me for clarification, but you may not consult one another or any other outside sources. The honor principle applies.


Office Hours


Scheduled office hours are Tuesday 9-10 and Friday 10-11. You are encouraged to use these either individually or in groups to discuss homework problems or other material covered in class. Please don't hesitate to come in.


Class Participation


Class participation will be a factor in determining grades for this class. Class participation includes asking questions, answering questions, generally speaking up in class, and taking an active role in in-class activities. Notice that you don't have to have a correct answer in order to speak up.

Participating in class is important for two reasons. First, it will keep you involved in the class and make the class meetings more interesting and meaningful. Second, it will allow me to identify misconceptions that you might have about the material so that we can clear them up.


Grading


Grades for the course will be determined based on the following percentages:

Midterm exam 1 20%
Midterm exam 2 20%
Final exam 35%
Homework 15%
Class Participation 10%


The Honor Principle


The Honor Principle applies to this class in the following way: You are encouraged to work together on homework, but the final written copy you turn in must be your own understanding of the material. Copying someone else's work is not permitted. Both midterms and the final must be completely your own work, with no outside help from other students, professors, textbooks, or notes. If you aren't sure if something is a violation of the Honor Principle, ask before doing it.


Disabilities


If you are a student with a disability, including an "invisible" disability such as a chronic disease or a learning disability, I encourage you to discuss with me any appropriate accommodations that I could make on your behalf. Also, stop by the Academic Skills Center to register for support services.