The Course
The main aim of the course is to get across the basic language of mathematics. In particular we do prove things. The material is to a large extent the same as 'calculus' which is to say the analysis of functions of a real variable. However we do this through the fundamental concept of a metric space; it will take about half the semester to get this sorted out. In the second half of the semester we go back and examine the notions that you already 'know' of differentiability of functions and integration.
Text
Rudin, W. Principles of Mathematical Analysis. 3rd ed. McGraw-Hill Science/Engineering/Math.
It may take a while but I think in the end you will grow to like Rudin's book. It is a book of mathematics. There is not very much chit-chat so don't expect to read it like a novel (or worse). In particular do not be upset if you have to read line by line.
Homework
This will mostly be from the exercises in Rudin. I will remind you in class that there is a problem set each Tueday, due the following Tuesday by NOON. You will have to get the problems from here. It is to be returned the next Thursday.
Exams
I plan to have two in-class tests. These are mainly intended to give you an idea of how you are doing. THERE WILL BE A FINAL EXAM.
Grades
Here is the scheme. Your grade will be computed two different ways, the actual grade you get will be the higher of the two.
Method 1
G=(H/HMAX)x40+(T/TMAX)x30+(E/EMAX)x30
Here H=Homework total, T=In-class test total, and E=Final exam total.
Method 2
G=(E/EMAX)x100
The notion here is to you may want to blow the whole semester thinking that you can always ace the final. I recommend strongly against it, but it is up to you -- good luck fella!
In my experience there is seldom much difference between the grades from the two methods. In either case the general idea is that the basic letter grades will correspond to
I hope not to see any D's and not too many C's either.