Text:                 Elementary Linear Algebra/Applications Version, 9th Edition, Anton-Rorres

Objective:
Linear algebra is an important course for a diverse number of students for at least two reasons.  First, few subjects can claim to have such widespread applications, and second, the subject presents the student at the sophomore level with an excellent opportunity to learn how to handle abstract concepts.

Linear algebra is an essential element in the modern study of many areas in physics, biology, chemistry, economics, finance, psychology, sociology, and all fields of engineering, and of course in pure and applied mathematics.  The goal of our course is to develop the fundamental concepts of linear algebra (systems of linear equations, matrix algebra, vector spaces, inner product spaces, linear transformations, and eigenvalue problems), emphasizing those concepts which are most important in applications.

Homework:
            Homework will be assigned at the end of each class.  The practice provided by the homework is essential for success in the class.  Homework will be collected each Monday at the beginning of class.  When we have a holiday on Monday, homework will be collected on Wednesday of the same week. 

            To receive the maximum credit of 10 points for each homework, it must be stapled, neatly completed with all work shown, and all answers must be clearly marked.  No late assignments will be accepted—no exceptions.  The three lowest homework scores will be dropped at the end of the semester.
           
Homework is a learning tool, and so credit will not be based on right or wrong answers.   Selected problems from each assignment will be checked for conceptual understanding.  The only right thing to do is attempt all problems—this is how we learn.  The wrong thing to do is not ask questions when a concept is unclear.
           
If, at the end of the semester, you have received a score of 85% or more for your homework (after the three drops), then your course percentage will be increased by 2%.

Quizzes:
            Six 25-point quizzes will be given during the semester, of which the two lowest score will be dropped.  Quiz problems will come directly from your homework problems.  There will be no make-up quizzes—no exceptions.    

Exams:
            We will have four exams during the semester (100 pts each), and a cumulative final exam (200 points).  No make-up exams will be given.  Any scheduling conflicts must be resolved at least one week before the exam date.    

Grading:  The final course grade will be based on the percentage of points earned out of the total possible, and overall class performance.
            Quizzes        100 pts
            Exams          400 pts
            Final exam    200 pts
                                700 pts (total possible pts.)

Grades will be assigned according to the following schedule:
90-100% A                   80-89%  B                      70-79%  C                      60-69%  D                     0-59%  F

***It is strongly recommended that students attend all classes and do at least all assigned problems.***