Advanced Linear Algebra
MATH 610
SYLLABUS

Fall 2018
TR 9:30–10:45
  Harris Hall South, 3003
 
VCU
Instructor: Richard Hammack
Office hours:
Office: Harris Hall 4166
Tuesday, 11:00–12:30
Work: 828-6237 Wednesday, 2:00–3:00
Home: 355-3963
Thursday, 11:00–12:30
E-mail: rhammack@vcu.edu
and by appointment
Course webpage: www.people.vcu.edu/~rhammack/Math610

Required Text: Linear Algebra (Second Edition) by K. Hoffman and R. Kuntz

The primary objective of this course is to understand the structure of linear operators on finite-dimensional vector spaces. The content of much of the course can be summarized in the following question: Given a linear transformation T:V→V, is there a basis for V relative to which the matrix for T has an especially simple form? Chapters 6 and 7 provide an affirmative answer with the rational and Jordan forms, which express T in terms of a matrix that is nearly diagonal. Chapters 8 and 9 explore the ramifications of an inner product on V, and culminate with the Spectral Theorem, giving conditions under which the matrix for T is diagonal.

We will begin with a quick review of elementary linear algebra (chapters 1, 2 and 3) followed by a discussion of polynomials and determinants (chapters 4 and 5). This material will then be put to use in chapters 6, 7, 8 and 9. If time permits we will also study bilinear forms in Chapter 10.

Your grade is determined by scores on three quizzes, two tests and a final exam. Tests and quizzes are written under the assumption that you are studying the material at least 7 hours per week outside of class.

Quizzes: There will be three short quizzes: In-class, closed-book, closed-notes. No technology.
Tests: There will be two 75-minute tests: In-class, closed-book, closed-notes. No technology.

Final Exam: The final exam is comprehensive. It is closed-book and closed-notes, and no computing technology of any type is allowed. It is scheduled for 8:00–10:50 a.m. on Tuesday December 11. In writing the final exam, I will assume that you have been studying the material at least 7 hours per week outside of class, throughout the entire semester.

Grading:
The 10-point grading scale is used:
A: 90–100
B: 80–89
C: 70–79
D: 60–69
F: 0–59
Your final average will be computed as follows:
Quizzes: 30%
Tests: 40%
Final Exam: 30%
Total: 100%
 


Exercises: You are expected to read the text actively. It has ample exercises, and it is vitally important that you work them as you study. You will have no trouble finding solutions on line (and most of them are probably correct). If you get stuck on a problem, resist the temptation to look at a solution until you have struggled with the problem for at least several hours. You will learn almost nothing if you just read a solution without trying to solve it yourself first. Also, I am happy to  discuss any problem with you.

Attendance: I do not take attendance. You are responsible for all material covered in class.

Make-up Work: If you miss a quiz or test for a documented illness or emergency, then I will consider scheduling a make-up for a later date, provided you notify me before the test.  If you miss the final exam for a legitimate reason (i.e. a documented illness or emergency) then I can give you a grade of Incomplete (I) for the course, and you will need to make up the missed exam by the date set by the University.

Web Page: Information about this course is posted on my web page (not on Blackboard). Go to www.people.vcu.edu/~rhammack/Math610. There you will find the syllabus, the course calendar and other materials. Solutions for all graded work will be posted after the due dates.

Email: Any email correspondence concerning this course should be through your official VCU email address. University policy prevents me from discussing many aspects of the course through other email addresses. I may send email messages either to the whole class or individuals in the class. It is your responsibility to check your VCU email regularly.

Cell Phones, Laptops and Tablets: Do not use these in class. Keep them stowed away for the entire duration of every class.

Office: Please feel free to stop by my office whenever you have a question, or if you just want to chat. If my posted hours are inconvenient, I will be happy to schedule an appointment. Tell me if you are having trouble. Catching up can be very difficult once you get behind, so let me know as soon as you think there is a problem.

Last day to withdraw: Friday, November 2.

Read VCU's syllabus statements at
http://www.provost.vcu.edu/academic-affairs/operations/syllabus-statements/