W80 Infinite Series. The theory of infinite series is a fascinating area of mathematics due to its wealth of surprising results. At a basic level, the theory provides a logical basis for extending finite addition to “infinite addition.” The course will begin with the basic definitions, and with the various elementary tests for convergence, some of which are discussed in Calculus 2. We will then look at more sophisticated tests for convergence, such as those of Kummer and Raabe. Finally we will study the harmonic and alternating harmonic series, and closely related series. There will be daily assignments and a final project. The course meets the Interim course requirement for mathematics majors. Prerequisites: Math 162, and either Math 256 or a 300-level mathematics course in which proof is emphasized. J. Ferdinands. 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
W81 Polyhedra. The study and properties of polyhedra have fascinated scholars for millennia. In particular, there are many areas of contemporary mathematics whose seeds can be found in the study of properties of polyhedra. Specifically, abstract algebra, geometry, and topology all have methods and currently active areas of research that can be traced back to the mathematics born out of the early of polyhedra. Furthermore, the study of polyhedra provides an opportunity to see algebra and geometry interact. Some of the topics we will explore in the course will include construction and classification of platonic and Archimedean polyhedral, Euler characteristic, group theory and the symmetries of polyhedral, higher dimensional polyhedral, tessellations of the euclidean and hyperbolic plane and the beginnings of combinatorial topology. Along the way, a Christian perspective of mathematics will be explored by looking at the historical and philosophical perspectives that have arisen from the study of polyhedra. Evaluation will be based on performance on written assignments, group projects, and an exam. This course satisfies the Interim course requirement for mathematics majors. Prerequisites: Mathematics 301 or Mathematics 351. J. Turner. 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
W82 Curricular Materials for K-8 Mathematics. This course examines and evaluates K-8 mathematics curricula in the context of the NCTM Principles and Standards for School Mathematics. Although the emphasis this year will be on grades K-5, curricula at all grade levels will be examined. Some of the curricula to be discussed are Everyday Mathematics, Investigations, Math TrailBlazers, Connected Mathematics, MathScape, MathThematics and Mathematics in Context. Students are expected to complete assigned readings, to participate in and lead sample activities and lessons, and to contribute to small-group and whole-class discussions of the materials under consideration. Evaluation is based on in-class participation, presentation of grade-level lessons, several written quizzes, and written projects. Optional K-8 classroom observations can be arranged for the morning hours. Students should arrange their schedules so that they can spend some additional hours in the Curriculum Center. This course may replace Mathematics 110 in the elementary education mathematics minor for students who have completed four years of high school mathematics and who have received permission from their mathematics advisor. Prerequisite: Mathematics 222. J. Koops. 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
160 Elemenary Functions and Calculus. This course is a continuation of Mathematics 159. Topics include applications of derivatives, integrals, the fundamental theorem of calculus, and applications of integrals. Grades are based on problem sets, tests, and a final exam. Prerequisite: Mathematics 159. M. Bolt. 8:30 a.m. to noon and 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.