Proof writing and problem solving are the essence of mathematical thinking. Using precise language, proofs are logical arguments that build mathematical knowledge and enable us to construct theories. Usage of mathematical notation, typesetting, research methods, reading, and writing skills are essential for clear and coherent mathematical communication.
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COMMUNICATION
Messages and announcements will be done using Canvas. When you need to contact your instructor or TA, please use Canvas as email messages will NOT be replied. This is to make communication more efficient, so we can correctly identify your section and other important information.
We will use ed for questions regarding HW, exams, lectures, etc. This tool is great for collaboration and to write math. It is difficult to type math in an email or in Canvas, so use ed for all content related questions!
For anything else, you can reach your instructor or TA using email, but please use this as the LAST method of communication.
RESOURCES
We will use several open books as reference for our class. Some useful ones are the follwing:
There are a few tutoring and external support that are highly encouraged the class. The writing center. LSS tutoring.
We will use Canvas for lecture content and assignments.
Grade
The grade will be divided into three compnents:
These three add to more than 100% of the total grade. In this way, even if you miss some components, your grade will not get affected.
Grades will be assigned using the +/- system.
Homework and Classwork (60%)
Portfolio (15%)
This is a compilation of important theorems and examples from class. You will have to identify which results to include in your portfolio. This is an important aspect of mathematical thinking. The portfolio will consist on three submissions. The first two submissions are a draft (around mid quarter) and the last will be the complete portfolio (around the end of the quarter).
Worksheets (8%)
Every Friday we will have a worksheet in our class which will be completed in groups. This will be based on that week's topic and will help you explore the mathematical ideas.
We are dropping the lowest 2 worksheets in order to account for any abscences or issues.
Quizzes (7%)
Every Friday we will have an in-class quiz based on that week's topics.
We are dropping the lowest 2 quizzes in order to account for any abscences or issues.
Section (10%)
Each Section day you will have different activities to work on.
We are dropping the lowest 2 section grades in order to account for any abscences or issues.
Homework (20%)
We will have a selection of problems due every week based on each week's topics.
We are dropping the lowest 2 homeworks in order to account for any abscences or issues.
Reflection and Engagement (25%)
Article exploration (5%)
You will choose between a few options of research papers to explore and discuss. You will write a report about the mathematics, structure, and your personal understanding of the article.
Discussions and reflections (5%)
This is a combination of Canvas discussions and daily reflections in which you will be asked to provide your perspective and feedback about the topics in class.
Mathematical Essay (7%)
This is a short essay about any mathematical related topic, including theory, examples, biographies, personal or sociaty challenges, etc.
Side quests (8%)
You will have the chance to explore concepts, tools, an activities beyond what we cover in our course. You can choose among the following:
Exam (20%)
The final is in-person.
No makeup exams under any circumstances. Under a valid emergency, one absence could be replaced by the average on the other assingments.
Final (20%)
The final is comprehensive and will include solving problems, recalling theorems and definitions, as well as problem solving strategies.
Final
Thursday, December 11th
4:00–7:00 PM
Prerequisite and degree relevance
Students learn the basic concepts and ideas necessary for upper-division mathematics and techniques of mathematical proof. Introduction to sets, relations, elementary mathematical logic, proof by contradiction, mathematical induction, and counting arguments.
Prerequisite(s): MATH 11A or MATH 19A or MATH 20A; and MATH 21 or AM 10.
The UC Santa Cruz community includes students, staff, faculty, and others who have a vested interest in the University. As members of an academic community, integrity, accountability and mutual respect are vital pillars of being part of this community. The Principles of Community further illustrate the values and expectations set forth for being a part of this community.
The use of generative AI in academic environments must be considered with care. A good rule to keep in mind that using generative AI to replace what a human could do might conflict with general rules of academic honesty. For our course, the recommendation is to avoid the usage of generative AI tools for assignments unless explicitly stated. When this is allowed, please make sure to cite, attribute, and/or describe to what extend you used it in your work and learning.
Learning Support Services (LSS)
Learning Support Services provides UCSC undergraduate students inclusive tutoring sessions facilitated by peers to build a strong foundation for success. In tutoring sessions, students can expect to create a community of learners.
UC Santa Cruz is committed to creating an academic environment that supports its diverse student body. If you are a student with a disability who requires accommodations to achieve equal access in this course, please submit your Accommodation Authorization Letter from the Disability Resource Center (DRC) to me privately during my office hours or by appointment, preferably within the first two weeks of the quarter. At that time, I would also like us to discuss ways we can ensure your full participation in the course. I encourage all students who may benefit from learning more about DRC services to contact DRC by phone at 831-459-2089 or by email at drc@ucsc.edu.
We understand that our members represent a rich variety of backgrounds and perspectives. UCSC is committed to providing an atmosphere for learning that respects diversity. While working together to build this community we ask all members to:
