Introduction to Finite Mathematics, Spring 2008

MTH 107 - MWF 11-11:50 a.m. (section 9) Bliss Hall 305

January 23 through April 29

Instructor:            Gary Tiner

                                Office:  213 Tyler Hall                          Office Hours:  MWF 3-4 p.m. (or by appointment)

e-mail:  GTmath@cox.net                    Telephone:  207-9359

Text:       Johnson & Mowry, MATHEMATICS  - A Practical Odyssey Chapters 1-4.

Calendar (click here) and Handouts (click here) .

Technology:  Calculator required; graphing calculator not necessary.  Math Department Web Page is http://www.math.uri.edu/ .

Accommodations:  Any student with a documented disability is welcome to contact me early in the semester to work out reasonable accommodations to support his/her success in this course.  The student should first contact Disability Services for Students, Office of Student Life, 330 Memorial Union, 874-2098.

Note: All cell phones must be turned off during class time.

Examinations and Grading:  Exams are in-class, closed book and closed notes; quizzes will be either in-class or take-home.  Use only your own calculator on exams; there will be no sharing of calculators. There will be four tests (one for each of the chapters 1 through 4 in the text) and one final exam. Quizzes and homework will total to one test score. You must check your email daily as I often provide hints and useful information that pertains to the class.

Homework:  The best way to learn math is by doing math (homework) problems (Homework Assignment Calendar) I will collect some of the homework assignments.  Note that the homework assignments are possibly the most important part of the course.  If you do not do the homework, it is very likely that you will do poorly on the quizzes and exams.  I will regularly assign homework problems; about once per week.  If you understand how to do all of the homework problems correctly, you will probably do very well in this course.  I strongly recommend that you complete all of the homework problems soon after the material is covered in class.  Feel free to work together on the homework problems.

Attendance:  Attendance will only be taken for the first few meetings.  If a student misses the first two class meetings, his spot in the class may be given to someone else.  Other than the first few meetings, attendance will not be taken.  You are still expected to attend every class with your book and calculator.  If you should miss class for any reason, catch up with the material as soon as possible, and make sure you learn about any announcements made in class, e.g., changes in exam dates, extra bonus problems, help sessions, etc.  When you come to class, please be respectful of your student colleagues (and me).

Free Tutoring:  The Academic Enhancement Center offers the services of experienced tutors, including advanced undergraduate students and mathematics graduate students.  The schedule will be posted on the Math Department web page listed above.  The Center offers an interactive learning environment where students can enjoy a cup of coffee, get help or help others with schoolwork, or find individual or group assistance as needed.  It is located on the 4^th floor of Roosevelt hall in University College.  It’s a good place to hang out.