Mathematics 2250
Differential Equations and Linear Algebra
Summer 2010
Class: MTWH, 7:30-8:30 am, LCB 215.
Instructor: Russ Richins.
Email: richins@math.utah.edu
Office Phone: (801) 585-6845
Class Website: http://www.math.utah.edu/∼richins/teaching/2250/math2250.html
Office: JWB 321. Office hours will be held after regular class time on Mondays and Wednesdays
from 8:30-9:30am. If these times do not work for you, I will be happy to make an appointment,
or you may stop by and try to find me in my office.
Text: Differential Equations and Linear Algebra, Third Edition, by C. Henery Edwards and
David E. Penney. Any other edition will work just as well. If you’re brave, you can probably get
by with any text on ODE and Linear Algebra, but that is much more risky.
Grading: Your grade will be based upon the following:
Computer Projects: 10%
Homework: 30%
In-class Tests: 30%
Final Exam: 30%
There will be three computer projects, one assigned approximately every three weeks. These are
meant to be relatively straight forward exercieses, and can be done using the math program of
your choice (Maple, Mathmatica, MATLAB, etc).
The homework for each section will be assigned after the lecture on that section is completed.
Each homework assignment will consist of ten problems. I will choose five problems and grade
them carefully out of five points each; the other five problems will be graded out of two points,
based on whether or not the appear to be done correctly. Therefore, each homework assignment
is worth 35 points. The homework assignments will be due approximately one week after they
are assigned. Late homework will not be accepted.
The tests will be held on the following dates:
Exam 1: 17 June
Exam 2: 15 July
Final: 6 August, 7:30-9:30 am, LCB 215
Please take note of the dates of the exams so that you can be present for them. Only in
extenuating circumstances will a test be given outside of these times. If approved, a test may
be taken early, but late tests will only be given in the most extreme circumstances. If a test is
given late, it will be in an oral format, which will make it more difficult. Tests will be similar to
the homework and quizzes given in class. The final will be comprehensive.
Material: We will cover chapters 1-7, 10, and 8 (time permitting). We will move quickly
through chapters 1 and 2. You should already be familiar with the methods of differentiation
and integration.
How to Pass: The following actions, if faithfully accomplished, will greatly increase your
chances of passing this course:
• Attend class.
• Take notes.
• Do all the homework and turn it in on time.
• Don’t skip the computer assignments.
• Don’t miss the tests.
• Use the test outline to prepare for the tests.
Students with Disabilities: If you will need accomodations in this class, reasonable prior
notice needs to be given to the instructor and to the Center for Disability Services, 162 Olpin
Union Building, 581-5020 (V/TDD) to make arrangements for accomodations.