This course, an HONORS version of Math 1550, is intended to serve the interests of students in engineering, the sciences, mathematics, and other fields as well. Its objectives include the same knowledge, computational skills, and problem-solving abilities as 1550, plus additional attention to rigor, precision, and especially interesting problems. It will prepare you to take 1553, which is the HONORS version of 1552. However, it will also prepare you, at least as well as 1550 will, for 1552.

The mastery of the material in this course, and the habit of achievement that comes with it, should make your subsequent studies easier and more rewarding.

The required text for this course is the same as for 1550: Calculus Early Transcendentals, fourth edition, by James Stewart, published by Brooks/Cole Publishing Company. The course corresponds to Chapters 1-7 in Stewart's book. We will deal with most of the material in those chapters. The course will cover some additional material, including some not contained in the book, and introductions to some topics that will appear in 1552 or 1553.

Most of you are new to the University and will find that you now face higher academic expectations than before. You may find it interesting and helpful to read the statement at the University of Hawaii Mathematics Department website, spelling out in general terms what's expected of you in university mathematics courses.

Requirements: There will be six 50-minute tests, a two-hour final exam, and a number of problem sets. In assigning problems to be written up and turned in, I'll allow some choice as to which ones you do and how many you do. In addition, I will suggest other problems for you to do on your own (not to be turned in), which you will be responsible for.

Your written solutions to problems should be easy to read, neat, organized, clear, and well-written - as well as correct. You should write at a level such that your solutions will be easy for your fellow students to understand. Your work on the problems must be your own, with the following exceptions: You may consult the text and other books. You may consult me for help. To a limited and reasonable extent, you may consult other persons or work with others in the class, but if you give or receive such assistance, you must acknowledge all instances of so doing on your paper.

I may sometimes make copies of your solutions to problems and test questions and distribute them to the class, with attribution.

Grading Formula: Let T denote the average of the best 5 of your grades on the six hour tests; P , your overall grade on the assigned problems; and E , your grade on the final exam. Let X be the higher of T and E , except that X may be higher than that if you do an outstanding job on problems. Your overall grade in the course will be no lower than
 

The grades P and X: As indicated in the formula, your overall grade P on assigned problems will count 20% of your course grade.  Each assignment will state a minimum and a maximum number of problems you can turn in for credit; for example, "do 3 to 6 problems."  If during the semester you do more than the sum of the minimums--counting only the problems on which you make grades of 7 or better--then the effect will be to improve the grade X.  So, if you do an outstanding job on the problems, your overall score on the problems can count up to 40% of your course grade.  

Being present: I expect you to attend class faithfully and to keep up with assigned work. When you are absent, or if you are late to class, or if you leave class early, I will assume that you have good reason; but please let me know why. If you have difficulties of any kind that affect your work, I will be glad for you to tell me about them. Whenever there is some way you think I can help, please ask. It will be best for you not to miss scheduled tests; but if you find that you are unable to take a test (or even the final exam) at the appointed time due to illness or other difficulty, please discuss it with me as soon as possible. Once you have taken the final, or any other test, a re-take is not allowed. When a test or problem set is graded and handed back to you, you should look it over carefully, and if you have any question or complaint about the grading, you should discuss it with me. It never hurts to ask.

Read the book: Do not expect to read a math book fast. Read the book actively. Try to be convinced that you understand each line before going on to the next. An assignment to "read Section x" includes not just a thorough reading but also doing a few of the exercises at the end.

Personal advice: Have due respect for what you're up against in your academic program. Take care of your health and of your general well-being. You need to be in good physical condition to succeed. Get the physical exercise that you need, and eat properly. Do what you need to do to assure that you have helpful conditions in the places where you live, work, and sleep. If you have emotional problems, get help, or at least find a friend to talk to; don't go it alone, and don't despair.