Syllabus - Vector Calculus - Spring 2024
MATH 241 - H01
General Information
- Course webpage
- https://duncan.math.sc.edu/s24/math241
Instructor
- Name
- Alexander Duncan
- duncan@math.sc.edu
- Office
- Leconte 448
- Office Hours
-
Tuesday 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Wednesday 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Thursday 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Meeting Times
- Lecture
- Tuesday, Thursday 8:30 AM-9:45 AM
Humanities 505
Bulletin Information
- Description
- Vector algebra, geometry of three-dimensional space; lines, planes, and curves in space; polar, cylindrical, and spherical coordinate systems; partial differentiation, max-min theory; muliple and iterated integration, line integrals, and Green's theorem in the plane.
- Prerequisites
- C or better in MATH 142
- W Deadline
- January 16
- WF Deadline
- March 25
Textbook
We will be using the free online textbook Calculus Volume 3 from OpenStax. (The "official" textbook Thomas' Calculus is optional.)
Learning outcomes
After successful completion of this course, you will be able to:
- understand the meaning, use, representations, and generalizations of multivariable functions, including the generalization of fundamental calculus concepts (such as limits, continuity, derivatives, and integration).
- master concepts and be able to solve problems associated with vectors, lines, planes, curves, surfaces, coordinate systems involving differentiation, max-min theory, and multiple integration techniques via physical applications of the tools of multivariable calculus.
- explain how some of the major integration theorems of vector calculus are generalizations of the fundamental theorem of calculus to higher dimensions, and apply them to physical problems.
Assessment
Your raw numerical grade will be computed as follows:
| Quizzes | 25% |
|---|---|
| Midterm Exams | 15% x 3 = 45% |
| Final Exam | 30% |
You are guaranteed, at least, the letter grade indicated by the following table:
| A | B+ | B | C+ | C | D+ | D |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 90 | 85 | 80 | 75 | 70 | 65 | 60 |
The table may be revised later (to your benefit) at the instructor's discretion.
Quizzes
There will be regular in-class quizzes roughly every week. The quizzes will be very similar to problems from the sections of the textbook discussed in lecture. Dates for the quizzes in the lecture schedule are tentative. No notes, books, computers, phones, calculators or other aids are allowed.
Exams
There are three midterm exams and a final exam. The midterm exams will take place instead of lecture, while the final exam is scheduled by the university registrar. No notes, books, computers, phones, calculators or other aids are allowed.
| Midterm Exam 1 | February 1, during class |
|---|---|
| Midterm Exam 2 | February 29, during class |
| Midterm Exam 3 | April 4, during class |
| Final Exam | April 25, 9:00 AM |
Course Policies
Attendance and Missed Work
No attendance policy will be enforced. However, it is not reasonable to expect to learn the material without regularly attending classes. Students are solely responsible for material or announcements missed due to missing classes without a documented excuse.
Make-up exams or quizzes may only be granted for documented excuses as listed in the Undergraduate Bulletin. In the case of a religious holiday or participation in a university-authorized activity, please notify the instructor within the first two weeks of class. The Undergraduate Student Ombuds may review appropriate documentation for absences due to medical conditions or illness, death or severe illness of an immediate/dependent family member, military duty, or legal obligation.
Academic Integrity
You are expected to practice the highest possible standards of academic integrity. Any deviation from this expectation will result in a minimum academic penalty of a zero in the relevant assessment, and may result in additional disciplinary measures.
Other Resources
Math Tutoring Center
While mainly intended for 100-level classes, the Math Tutoring Center has resources that can be useful for Math 241 students.
Student Success Center
The Student Success Center offers free programs and initiatives for students.
Office of Student Disability Services
Any student with a documented disability should contact the Student Disability Resource Center to make arrangements for appropriate accommodations.