Fall 2023 - MATH 480W D100
The Art and Craft of Problem Solving (3)
Class Number: 2048
Delivery Method: In Person
Overview
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Course Times + Location:
Sep 6 – Oct 6, 2023: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
BurnabyOct 11 – Dec 5, 2023: Tue, 2:30–5:20 p.m.
Burnaby
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Instructor:
Jonathan Jedwab
jed@sfu.ca
1 778 782-3337
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Prerequisites:
MACM 201 with a grade of at least B. At least one of MACM 201, MATH 240, MATH 242, MATH 251, MATH 252 with a grade of at least A, or both of MACM 203, MACM 204 with a grade of at least A. Or permission of the instructor.
Description
CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:
Designed for students with a strong interest in problem solving and the determination to persevere in seeking solutions to highly challenging mathematical problems. Intended as a preparation for the Putnam Competition, the most challenging and prestigious undergraduate mathematics competition in North America, in which effective presentation of solutions is as important as skill in problem solving. Reviews strategic principles, tactical approaches, and specific technical tools for problem solving, and mathematical problem solving folklore. Emphasis is placed on clarity of exposition and persuasiveness of written argument, and on development of communication skills. Students interested in MATH 480W are encouraged to take the course as soon as they meet the prerequisites, since performance in the Putnam Competition often improves with second and subsequent attempts. Students with credit for MATH 370W may not take MATH 480W for credit. Writing/Quantitative.
COURSE DETAILS:
1. Strategies for investigating problems.
2. Fundamental tactics for solving problems.
3. Crossover tactics (graph theory, complex numbers, generating functions).
4. Applications of general strategies and tactics to problems from algebra, combinatorics, number theory, and calculus.
Grading
- Assignments 65%
- Timed Putnam practice test 15%
- Class participation 20%
NOTES:
THE INSTRUCTOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CHANGE ANY OF THE ABOVE INFORMATION.
Students should be aware that they have certain rights to confidentiality concerning the return of course papers and the posting of marks. Please pay careful attention to the options discussed in class at the beginning of the semester
Materials
REQUIRED READING:
The Art and Craft of Problem Solving
Paul Zeitz
Wiley & Sons
3rd Edition; 2017
ISBN: 9781119239901
REQUIRED READING NOTES:
Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.
Registrar Notes:
ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS
SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating. Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.
Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the university community. Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the university. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the university. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html
RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION
Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the semester are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.