Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2024 - MATH 292 D100

Selected Topics in Mathematics (3)

Class Number: 7485

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2024: Mon, Wed, Fri, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

    Oct 15, 2024: Tue, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Dec 5, 2024
    Thu, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    Prerequisites will be specified according to the particular topic or topics offered.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Topics will vary from term to term depending on faculty availability and student interest.

COURSE DETAILS:

An important part of mathematics research is investigating and discovering patterns, then proving the patterns hold in all cases. This course focuses on solidifying these important skills. By studying mathematical logic, methods of argument, and a wide variety of topics – such as set theory, number theory, algebra, and group theory - students will better understand what it means to prove things and how to do so rigorously. By working to discover the underlying structure and truth in various mathematical topics, students can expect their problem-solving skills to improve, as well as their ability to form and communicate persuasive logical arguments.

Students planning to take MATH242: Introduction to Analysis I are strongly encouraged to take MATH292 which is designed to support this course. MATH292 also supports students taking MATH240: Algebra I: Linear Algebra by providing the necessary skills to write proofs in any situation, including linear algebra proofs. Students planning on taking MACM 201 or other upper-year mathematics are also encouraged to take this course.

This course may serve as a prerequisite in place of MACM101 for any MATH or MACM course. This course and MACM101 contain some overlap but diverge in content as this course focuses on mathematical proofs, examples, and applications to help prepare you for future courses as a mathematics major or minor.

Prerequisites: Pre-Calculus 12 (or equivalent) with a grade of at least A, or one of Math 150, 151, 154, 157 with a minimum grade of C-

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

  • Propositional logic, quantifiers, valid arguments, and rules of inference.
  • Set theory, power sets, and proofs.
  • Number theory, prime numbers, infinitely many primes, modular arithmetic, and congruence proofs.
  • Induction and number theory applications.
  • Counting and Combinatorial proofs
  • Relations, functions, and bijections.
  • Cardinality proofs and different sizes of infinity.
  • Introduction to group theory.
  • Introduction to analysis (time permitting).

Grading

  • In-class assignments and participation 8%
  • Written assignments 12%
  • Four 25-minute tests 40%
  • Final exam 40%

Materials

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 term 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.