Goals This is a core class under the "Inquiry in Mathematics" category. As such, an overarching goal of this course is that you develop a facility in and appreciation for symbolic reasoning. In this course, the symbolic reasoning we will focus on will be primarily geometry and we will build our appreciation through the application of mathematics to the visual arts (primarily painting, graphic design, and sculpture). Specifically, a successful student in this class should be able to
What to bring to class: Our two texts are Symmetry, Shape, and Space: An Introduction to Mathematics Through Geometry by Kinsey and Moore and Flatland by Abbott. Neither one will be used throughout the semester - check the online schedule for reading assignments. The following material will be needed in most classes: a calculator that can compute logarithms and trigonometric functions, a ruler, and graph paper. Note that graph paper is available in the book store or can be downloaded from Mathematics Help Center Graph Paper Page. I strongly recommend having a graphing calculator available.
Grading: I will grade on the following scale: 89.50% and up is an A, 79.50-89.49% is a B, 69.50-79.49% is a C, 59.50-69.49% is a D. Your grade will consist of 3 semester exams, homework, a project, participation, and a final exam. I will calculate your grade as follows:
45% --- 15% for each of the semester exams
10% --- homework
15% --- project
10% --- participation
20% --- final exam
I do not give extra credit on an individual basis.
Exams: We have exams planned for 2/7, 3/14, and 4/16.
Project: There will be one individual project due at the end of the semester. The goal of the project is to give you the opportunity to apply the knowledge in this class either through the creation or analysis of artwork following specific mathematical principles. A list of possible projects, a schedule of activities, and grading criteria will be made available the fourth week of classes.
Homework: The primary purpose of homework is to gain experience communicating with the material and to help you determine where your strengths and weaknesses are. I will usually be assigning homework every class period. Homework is then due the following Monday at 4 pm in the folder outside my office (unless announced otherwise). Some important notes on homework:
Your homework average will be calculated by dividing the total points earned by the total points possible.
Final: Our final will be cumulative and will follow the schedule announced by the reigstrar.
Class Participation: This class will require several types of participation. In some classes will involve lab activities, some lecture, and some discussion. In all classes, I will be tracking your attendance and participation, whether that means asking or answering questions in class or performing an activity. To earn the full 8% assigned to class participation, you should have at most one or two absences, participate in lab activities, and add to class discussion on a weekly basis.
Makeup Policy: If you do not turn in a homework assignment or project or do not show up for an exam or project, you will receive a zero for that portion of your grade unless you make arrangements with me. It is your responsibility to contact me about the material you've missed. If you are going to miss a portion of your grade, contact me as soon as possible. I will make arrangements for you to make up the work if you are absent due to a family emergency, a documented illness, or a documented school activity.
Accomodations for Students with Disabilities: If you are a student with a disability who needs some form of accomodation as authorized by the Centenary Counseling Center, please see me early in the semester so we can make appropriate arrangements.
Honor Code: You should be familiar with the rules of the Honor Code, and in particular, Article VI regarding student responsibilities.