Professor Gordana G. Todorov
MTH 1365 · Introduction to Mathematical Reasoning
Fall 2009

* Course Information

Course MTH 1365 · Introduction to Mathematical Reasoning, 10711 - MATH 1365 - 02
Instructor Gordana Todorov       Email g.todorov@neu.edu
Time Place MWTh 1:35-2:40 in 394 Ryder Hall
Office 531 Lake Hall            Office Hours MWTh 3-4 pm
Textbook Mathematics: A Discrete Introduction, Second edition, by E. Scheinerman, Brooks/Cole, 2006
Grade 60% in-class exams, 40% final exam

* Course Description

The main objective of the course is to prepare incoming math majors for more challenging mathematical courses at Northeastern by covering the basics of mathematical reasoning and problem solving. The course focuses on learning to write logically sound mathematical arguments and to analyze such arguments. We will attempt to cover most of the material in the first five chapters and in Chapter 7 of Scheinerman's book. Here is a more detailed list of topics to be discussed (if time allows):
  • Chapter 1: fundamentals of a mathematical argument (definitions, theorems, proofs, counterexamples, elements of Boolean Algebra).
  • Chapter 2: lists, sets, quantifiers.
  • Chapter 3: binomial coefficients.
  • Chapter 4: mathematical induction, recurrence relations.
  • Chapter 5: functions, the pigeonhole principle.
  • Chapter 7: basic number theory (divisibility of integers, modular arithmetic, prime factorizations).

* Homework Assignments & Schedule of the Course

You can find your day to day homework assignements and schedule of the quizzes here.                                   .

* Course Policies

    It is your responsibility to be aware of any changes in the syllabus announced in class. Students are responsible for all information given when they are absent.
    If you have a concern about the course or the instructor that cannot be resolved by speaking with the instructor, please contact Professor Alex Martsinkovsky (undergraduate director), 471 LA, x5510, alexmart@neu.edu.
    It is University policy that no grade, including an incomplete, can be changed after one year. Exceptions must be authorized by the Academic Standing Committee.
    All students without legitimate conflicts (approved by the instructor) will take the final exam at the scheduled time. Do not make travel plans that conflict with the final exam.
Department of Mathematics  Office:  531 Lake Hall  Messages:  (617) 373-2450 
Northeastern University Phone:  (617) 373-2450  Fax: (617) 373-5658
Boston, MA, 02115  Email:  g.todorov@neu.edu Directions
Home Started:  September 8, 2009
Last modified:  September 8, 2009