Syllabus for Differential Equations
CSU MTH 286
Spring 2011
Sean Yee
syee@solonboe.org
440-349-7757 ext 5429
Textbook:
 Elementary Differential Equations, with ODE Architect CD, 8th Edition by William E.
Boyce, Richard C. DiPrima.
 Calculus by Michael Spivak
 Advanced Engineering Mathematics, 7th Edition by Erwin Kreyszig
Course Description:
This is an introduction to Ordinary Differential Equations (ODE) with an emphasis on linear
differential equations. Topics covered include:
 Basic concepts and methods of solving 1st, 2nd, and higher order ODE’s including
homogeneous equations with constant coefficients, method of underdetermined
coefficients, and the method of variation of parameters.
 Mathematical modeling with predetator/prey models, forced vibration modeling, and
deducing boundary conditions from a given problem.
 Basic theory of Systems of equations, linear independence and the Wronskian for 2 nd
order ODE’s, the characteristic equation, Eigenvalues, Eigenvectors, Fundamental
Matrices.
 Solving ODE’s using the Laplace Transform, especially with discontinuous forcing
functions.
 Elementary introduction to solving 2nd order ODE’s with Series and Sequences.
 Introduction of Fourier Series for Partial Differential Equations
Attendance:
It is very important to be in class each day. Mathematics builds upon itself; therefore
the more class time you miss, the more pressure you will put on yourself to get caught up
with the class. Please make every effort to be in class everyday! If you are absent, it is
your responsibility to get the assignments or assessments AND NOTES that you
have missed. Assignments will be posted in the classroom and are available on my
class webpage. It is advised that you get any missed notes from a classmate. Absence
the day before an exam does not excuse you from taking the exam as no new material
will be covered on review days. Be familiar with the make-up policy in the student
handbook. If you are not in the room when the bell begins to ring, then you are tardy.
Classroom Expectations:
1. Respect others at all times this includes other students. Courtesy is expected.
2. Be in class and ready to begin when the bell rings. Class is over when you are
dismissed by the teacher.
3. Listen to and follow directions the first time they are given.
4. Participate in class discussions and group activities, take notes, and ask questions!
5. Swearing, abusive or vulgar language is not appropriate and will not be tolerated.
Required Materials:
1. Covered textbook (the textbook issued to you is your responsibility, including damage
and theft)
2. 3-ring binder and notebook paper
3. Pencils with erasers and pens.
4. Highlighter and Colored Pencils
5. Graphing calculator-TI 83 or TI 84 models are recommended.
Assignments and Grading:
1. Homework will be assigned almost everyday. Homework is an essential part of this
class. It provides additional instruction, practice and reinforcement of newly acquired
concepts.
 TAKE PRIDE IN YOUR HOMEWORK! TURN IN EVERY ASSIGNMENT AS
THE FINAL DRAFT OF A PAPER.
 Assignments will be posted in the classroom. It is your responsibility to write
them down.
 Assignments are to be done in pencil only. They will not be accepted if done in
pen.
 Correct your homework in pen. This way, mistakes and weak areas will be easily
identified.
 Diagrams that accompany the exercises must be included on your homework for
full credit.
 Homework may be spot-checked in class for points without prior notice. Be
prepared to share your solutions with the class.
2. Exams will be given at the end of each unit of study and will always be announced in
advance. Quizzes will be given periodically, and they may or may not be announced.
3. I will not grade on a curve nor will grades be rounded. However, some extra credit
assignments and bonus questions will appear occasionally.
Consequences of misbehavior:
1st offense – verbal warning
2nd offense – detention
3rd offense – detention and phone call home
4th offense – office referral
Internet Information:
My weekly lessons will be posted online. You will find the lesson (topic) for the day,
homework, and upcoming tests and quizzes. To get to my page follow these steps:
1. Go to the Solon Schools web page www.solonschools.org
2. Choose Schools
3. Choose Solon High
4. Scroll down to my name (Sean Yee)
5. Choose “Calendar of Events” from the bottom of the page
6. Choose the appropriate class
Please email or call me with any questions or concerns!