Math 401

Math 401: Introduction to Abstract Algebra

Instructor: Jingjun Han

Office: Krieger 221

Email: jhan@math.jhu.edu

Lectures: MW 12:00-1:15pm, Krieger 308

Office Hours: Wednesdays 11-noon or by appointment

Section: F 12:00-12:50pm, Krieger 302

TA: Zehua Zhao (zzhao25@math.jhu.edu), Krieger 201.

Textbook: Groups and Symmetry by M.A. Armstrong

Description: This course is an introduction to the basic structure of abstract algebra as well as an introduction to proofs. We will be covering most of the book (all but chapters 24-28). The prerequisite for this course is Linear Algebra.

Homework: Problem sets will generally be posted here each Wednesday and due in class the following Wednesday. Late homework will not be accepted without a valid reason, but your two lowest homework scores will be dropped. Collaboration on homework is allowed and encouraged. However, each student must write up their solutions individually and in their own words. Copying from another student's paper is prohibited.

There will be three quizzes throughout the semester. The problems for the quizzes will be very similar to homework problems. Quizzes count for 5% each of your grade.

Exams and grades: There will be one in-class midterm, on Monday October 29. Grades will be assigned based on the following formula: 10% quizzes (lowest dropped), 30% homework, plus either 20% midterm and 40% final exam, or else 60% final exam, whichever is higher. (Make-up exams for the midterm will not be offered. If you miss the midterm with a valid excuse, then your exam grades will be determined by the final exam. The grade for an unexcused absence from any exam will be zero.)

Ethics statement: In this course, you must be honest and truthful. Ethical violations include cheating on exams, plagiarism, reuse of assignments, improper use of the Internet and electronic devices, unauthorized collaboration, alteration of graded assignments, forgery and falsification, lying, facilitating academic dishonesty, and unfair competition. Report any violations you witness to the instructor. You may consult the associate dean of student conduct (or designee) by calling the Office of the Dean of Students at 410-516-8208 or via email at integrity@jhu.edu. For more information, see the Homewood Student Affairs site on academic ethics: (https://studentaffairs.jhu.edu/student-life/student-conduct/academic-ethics-undergraduates) or the e-catalog entry on the undergraduate academic ethics board: (http://e-catalog.jhu.edu/undergrad-students/student-life-policies/#UAEB).

Disability services: Any student with a disability who may need accommodations in this class must obtain an accommodation letter from Student Disability Services, 385 Garland, (410) 516-4720, studentdisabilityservices@jhu.edu To obtain accommodations for an exam, please give me a copy of your letter at least one week in advance of the exam.

Anxiety, stress, and mental health: If you are struggling with anxiety, stress, depression or other mental health related concerns, please consider visiting the JHU Counseling Center. If you are concerned about a friend, please encourage that person to seek out their services. The Counseling Center is located at 3003 North Charles Street in Suite S-200 and can be reached at 410-516-8278 and online at http://studentaffairs.jhu.edu/counselingcenter/