| Announcements |
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| Important Links |
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Multiplicative order vs Belongs to the exponent
| Instructor and Meeting Times |
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Note that you do not need an appointment to attend regularly-scheduled office hours. If you have a conflict you may make an appointment to meet outside those times.
| Course Description and Objectives |
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Course objectives: This is a course in what is referred to as Elementary Number Theory. The word "Elementary" is being used in a technical sense to mean the purpose of this course is to study properties of the integers and their applications without using sophisticated tools from abstract algebra (Algebraic Number Theory), or complex analysis (Analytic Number Theory). Through this course we will learn basic tools of modular arithmetic, divisibility, arithmetic functions as well as a few applications to cryptography and counting problems.
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| Homework |
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A number of problem sets will be posted on the homeworks tab of this page. Students will need to prepare written solutions for each of these problems, and these problems will be graded. These written solutions must be turned in before the corresponding class discussion of the solution for the solution to receive full credit.
Students will be asked to participate in class, by presenting solutions to homework problems and asking/answering questions.
Expect to spend a substantial amount of time studying, working on homework and preparing for the course. The general rule is two to three hours outside class for each hour inside; this translates to about 6-9 hours of homework and personal study per week.
Additionally, each student is responsible for writing up notes describing what was covered during lectures for two weeks during the term. These notes should be written up clearly using latex and submitted to the instructor within a week. Students are also encouraged to include additional examples/explanation. Notes will be posted for use by the rest of the class. Sign up for weeks here. Note: each week of notes will count as one homework assignment.
For students enrolled in MATH 565 A final presentation on the proof of a theorem related to the material in class will be required. You will need to meet with the instructor to select a topic/theorem and give a 15-20 minute presentation in class.
| Exams |
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There will be a midterm exam and a final exam covering the material presented in lectures, readings and on homework assignments.
| Midterm 1 | Midterm 2 | Final Exam |
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| Wednesday, October 9th | Monday, November 25th | Friday, December 13th |
| Evaluation |
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Grades will be assigned based on homework, in class presentations and participation, and labs and exams. They will be weighted in the students final grade as follows:
| Component | Math 465 | Math 565 |
| Homework, and typed course notes | 30% | 25% |
| Class participation | 10% | 5% |
| Midterms | 20% | 20% |
| Final Presentation | - | 10% |
| Final Exam | 30% | 30% |
| Disabilities and Religious Observances |
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Towson University is committed to providing equal access to its programs and services for students with disabilities, Students with disabilities should visit the Disabilities Services Web page, to learn about how to arrange for any appropriate accommodations. It is the student's responsibility to let the instructor know when he/she is a student with needs in this area. A memo from Disability Support Services (DSS) authorizing your accommodations will be needed.
If you have a religious observance that conflicts with your participation in the course, please meet with me before the end of the second week of the term to discuss appropriate accommodations.
| Course Policies |
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On Exams: No assistance may be given or received except that you may ask the instructor for clarification of a problem. Calculators are not permitted.
On Homework: You are permitted and encouraged to collaborate with other students on the homework. However, after discussing the problems, you must write up the final solutions in your own words. You may use calculators and approved software. Additionally, you may consult your class notes and text. It is not permitted for someone to provide the answers for you. It is not permitted to submit answers found on the internet as your own work.
See this page from the MAA for information on how to avoid plagiarism in mathematical writing.Class attendance is expected. If you miss a class, it is your responsibility to get the material and the homework assignment from your fellow students.
Diversity Statement: Towson University values diversity and fosters a climate that is grounded in respect and inclusion, enriches the educational experience of students, supports positive classroom and workplace environments, promotes excellence, and cultivates the intellectual and personal growth of the entire university community.