Finite mathematics encompasses a variety of topics which can be described, analyzed and solved with elementary algebra, set theory, and arithmetic. It is a large and multifaceted field with many applications. This course is intended to acquaint you with a few of its more commonly used techniques and ideas, and to give you an appreciation for its uses.

The primary purpose of this course is to improve your analytical and problem-solving skills. If you do well in this course, you have a proven ability to think logically, and analyze and solve quantitative problems. This ability is useful in academic and professional work, and is highly valued by employers.

Material from Chapters 4, 5, 6, 8 and 9 of the text is covered.

Homework: Frequent homework assignments are collected, graded and returned. These assignments are important for two reasons. First, they help you understand the material and keep you from getting behind. Second, they give you valuable practice in communicating your ideas. Effective communication is a cornerstone of Randolph-Macon's mission statement and is taken seriously in this course.

• Papers are collected at the beginning of class on appointed days.
• If you miss class on a day homework is due, give it to me early or have a classmate turn it in for you.
• Exceptionally messy or illegible work may not be graded.
• I am attentive to how well you communicate your ideas. Points may be deducted for bad style or sloppiness.
• I cannot guarantee that late homework will be graded.
• I encourage you to work together on homework, though the work you turn in must be your own (not blindly copied).

Make-up Tests: If a test is missed due to a documented illness or emergency, then either a make-up test is scheduled, or that test grade is dropped. An unexcused absence from a test results in a grade of zero. However, the final exam is mandatory, and a make-up final can be given only with the consent of the Dean of the College.

Grading:

The 10-point grading scale will be used: A: 90-100 B: 80-89 C: 70-79 D: 60-69 F: 0-59

Your final average will be computed as follows: Homework: 20% Test #1: 25% Test #2: 25% Final Exam: 30% Total: 100%

Attendance: I do not take attendance, but I do notice if you are not attending class. If your grades are high, I do not mind if you miss class. However, if your grades are low and you miss a lot of class, I will notify the Dean of Students.

As a matter of courtesy, you should arrive punctually and stay for the entire duration of each class you attend. Please inform me ahead of time if you must leave early.

Internet: I maintain a Web page for this course. To find it, go to my home page (www.rmc.edu/~rhammack) and click on "Math 105." There you will find the syllabus, homework assignments, a calendar, copies of old tests, and solutions to the homework problems.

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.

Tips for success: Here are some guidelines for success in Finite Math. Nearly every F that I have given in this course has been the result of negligence of one or more of these simple principles.

• Study a little each day, rather waiting to cram before tests. One hour of study each day is a good start.
• Read and reread each section of the text carefully and actively. Make a note of anything you don't understand.
• Resolve any question by further study, or by asking me or a classmate.
• Test your understanding by working odd numbered problems in the text. Answers are in the back.
• Reserve lots of time for assigned homework. Think carefully about each problem. Consider how it relates or contrasts with other problems. Be aware of its connection to themes in the text.
• Write your homework solutions carefully. Communicating your solutions concisely improves your understanding. Similarly, realizing you can't write a clear solution is a signal that you need to study that topic further.
• Use your graded homework and tests as diagnostic tools. Concentrate on problems for which you did not get full credit. Resolve any misunderstanding.
• Attend class regularly.
• Always check your understanding by working problems yourself. The fact that you follow what is said in class does not necessarily mean you understand it.