Math 331: Differential Equations 2006

Boyce & DiPrima, Chapters 1-4, 7, 9

Dr. Roland Minton, Trexler 270-G, 375-2358 office hours 11-12M, 1-2T, 11-12W, 2-3Th

minton@roanoke.edu www.roanoke.edu/staff/minton/ccourse.html

Course Objectives: Develop an understanding of the theory and elementary applications of ordinary differential equations. The emphasis is on finding explicit solutions, but qualitative methods are also covered. Theory from calculus and linear algebra is applied to solutions of differential equations, with important connections being made between the different areas of mathematics. A variety of applications are explored, with the surprising result that seemingly diverse applications can be identical mathematically. The interactions among theory, previous courses studied and applications makes this the best course on campus.

Attendance Policy: Regular attendance is expected. You are responsible for everything done in class, through your attendance and sharing class notes with classmates. To keep you from hiding too much, you will be asked to actively participate in class. Class participation will count one homework grade, and will be used as a criterion for curving final grades.

Equipment: We will use the TI-89 calculator, Mathematica and ODE Architect, which comes with your book. Both will be used on homework assignments. The TI-89 will be used on tests.

Academic Integrity: The college policy is fully supported. Tests are closed notes, closed book. Homework assignments will typically be discussed in class, and you may always ask me for help. Otherwise, homework is to be your own work.

Study Problems: Problems will be assigned at the end of each section of the book. You are expected to attempt every problem before the next class and ask questions in office hours about those you do not understand. You may ask questions about the harder problems in class. Study problems will indicate what you are responsible for on tests.

Homework: Homework problems to be turned in will be assigned throughout the term. These problems typically involve material not in the book and are more open-ended than study problems or test questions. They are intended to be thought-provoking and interesting. Think about them, discuss them and learn from them.

Co-curricular: You must attend 3 co-curricular events, approved by the math department. For each one, write a two- or three-paragraph summary of the event, following the model provided.

Tests: There will be three tests and the final exam. Each test will cover all material discussed since the previous test. Test dates are 2/7, 3/2 and 4/6. The final exam is cumulative and is scheduled for Thursday, 4/27, 8:30-11:30.

Make-ups: In case of sickness or scheduling conflicts, get in touch with me ASAP.

Grading: The homework will count as one test grade (20%). The final exam counts as one test grade. Grades may be curved up based on consideration of one unusually low test score or other extenuating circumstance.

A: 93-100 A-: 90-92 B+: 87-89 B : 83-86 B-: 80-82 C+: 77-79 C: 73-76 C-: 70-72

D+: 67-69 D: 63-67 D-: 60-62 F: 59 and below.