Math 256 Basic Algebra, Section 31

Winter 2005

Dima Arinkin
Office: Eckhart 319
Email: dima@math.uchicago.edu

Office Hours:
Wednesdays, 1:00-3:00
Fridays, 11:30-1:00, and by appointment

Texts: Abstract Linear Algebra (Curtis), A First Course in Abstract Algebra (Fraleigh).

Exam dates:
Test 1: Friday, April 22
Test 2: Monday, May 9
Final: Friday, June 10, 10:30-12:30.

Final grade:
Final Exam: 40%
Hourly Exams: 40%
Homework: 20%

Homework:
Homework is assigned weekly and due by 3pm on the due date (usually on Friday). You are allowed (and encouraged) to discuss the problems with other students, but you must write your own homework.

The topics we plan to cover:

• Linear algebra: Cayley-Hamilton Theorem, Jordan Form (Curtis, 3.C-3.E)
• Abstract Algebra: Extension Fields, Galois Theory (Fraleigh, Chapters VI, X).
• (Time permitting) Advanced Group Theory: Action on Sets, Sylow Theorems (Fraleigh, Chapters III, VII).