Course Essentials

Course Description

This introduction to linear algebra includes matrix algebra, Gaussian elimination, determinant of a matrix, vector spaces, liner transformations, orthogonality, and eigenvalues and eigenvectors, and computational methods.

REQUIRED MATERIALS AND MINDSET

Computer/tablet with internet access and webcam: Since I hold my Happy Hours online, you must be required to have internet access. It would be nice to have a webcam so that I can see you.
Required Textbook: “Elementary Linear Algebra 8e” by Ron Larson. (ISBN#978-1-305-65800-4)
Calculators: Although calculators will not be allowed on some tests, the use of a graphic calculator is required and strongly recommended. The Math Department generally recommends the TI-83, TI-83 Plus, or TI-84. The only calculators allowed on the tests/quizzes where a calculator is permitted will be the TI-83/84. We will be using a computer program called Octave. Octave is a free version of Matlab. You can buy a student version of Matlab and use that instead of Octave if you wish. Octave is installed on many computers in the Math Learning Center. You can download and install Octave on your computer if you wish.

Determination, positive attitude, hard work, and desire to succeed!

📘 Information on Homework and Quizzes

📓 Homework & Notebook

You are expected to keep a neat, organized notebook in which you write out all assigned homework problems in order, showing all steps and using correct mathematical notation.

Homework assignments are generally not collected. However, you are still expected to complete every assigned problem, as homework is one of the most important ways to learn the material and prepare for assessments.

Some quizzes may require you to submit selected homework assignments, mathematical proofs, or other written work completed in your notebook. Other quizzes may be computer-generated and administered through the online homework system. For this reason, your notebook should be complete, organized, and up to date at all times.

Homework and quizzes are designed to prepare you for:

Exams
Developing problem-solving skills
Understanding mathematical concepts and proofs presented in class

👉 Do not wait until the night before a quiz or exam to complete your homework. Trying to catch up at the last minute is extremely difficult and is rarely successful. Consistent practice throughout the semester is essential.

If you miss a class, it is your responsibility to find out from a classmate (not me) which sections and problems were assigned.

💻 MATLAB / Octave Assignments

In addition to regular homework, there will be MATLAB/Octave assignments throughout the semester.

Due dates will be announced during lecture
If you miss class, it is your responsibility to obtain the due date from your classmates (not from me)
All MATLAB/Octave assignments must be submitted as ONE single PDF file by the deadline
⏰ Late submissions will receive a 10% deduction

These assignments are designed to reinforce concepts from lecture and help you develop computational skills relevant to Linear Algebra.

📝 Quizzes

There will be multiple quizzes throughout the semester, and all quizzes must be submitted through Canvas.

Quizzes may take a variety of forms, including:

Computer-generated quizzes completed through the online homework system
Handwritten quizzes
Submission of selected homework assignments from your notebook
Mathematical proofs or other written work based on material discussed in class

The format of each quiz will depend on the topic and the learning objectives.

For handwritten quizzes or homework/proof submissions, you will be given instructions on how to:

Complete the assignment
Scan or photograph your work
Upload it as one single PDF file to Canvas

⏰ Late quiz submissions will receive a 10% deduction.

📄 Tips for combining multiple photos into a single PDF are available under the Syllabus tab in Canvas.

Please note that quiz formats and due dates will vary throughout the semester. You are expected to be comfortable communicating mathematics both digitally and through clear, organized handwritten work.

🧾 Exams

There will be 3 exams and a final exam.

Exams may be taken early if circumstances warrant — please see me at least one week in advance if you need this option.
❌ No make-up exams will be given.
🔔 There are no dropped exams in this course. A missed exam will result in a score of zero.

Math 270 Course Student Learning Outcome

For a given set of problems the student will demonstrate quantitative reasoning by developing a problem-solving strategy, performing appropriate analysis and computation, and critically assessing the meaning of the conclusion or outcome.

Core Competencies

Intellectual and practical skills, including quantitative literacy and problem solving, will be practiced extensively across the curriculum in the context of progressively more challenging problems, projects, and standards for performance.

Tips on how to be successful in this class:

Complete the current section's written homework right after each lecture or the next day.
Be prepared to turn in your homework in advance if you are asked to do so.
Keep up with pace of the class to aid with deeper understanding.
Engage during lectures, in practice opportunities.
Email me right away at lnakamura@miracosta.edu if you have any questions or get 'stuck' on a problem
Attend my Happy Hours
Reach out to your teammates!

Time commitment

Studying Math: The State of California accreditation standard requires that 1 unit of Academic Credit represents a minimum of 48 total hours of student work. More info from the State of California can be found (see page 10and 11) by clicking this link. A 4 unit (16 week) class requires about 12~13 hours a week: attending class (and/or watching videos or reading materials), re-reading, completing homework, reviewing, etc.

You can expect to spend a minimum of 12~13 hours per week in this class. Yes, I know this sounds traumatic, and it is a lot, but please note that studying math requires a lot of practice, which requires a lot of your time.

Do not allow yourself to fall behind in your work. Catching up before a test is an extremely difficult task!!

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