MATHS 271: Math Contest Problem Solving (1)

Syllabus

 

1.  Prerequisite:  none. Open to students in any major.  A total of 2 hours of credit may be earned, but no more than 1 in any one semester or term.  

 

2.  Course Description: Advanced mathematics problem-solving strategies for individuals and groups.  Designed to prepare participants for the Putnam Exam and other collegiate mathematics contests.

 

3.  Course Objectives: 

            a.         To introduce and develop advanced mathematics problem-solving strategies for students who wish to prepare for national and regional contests such as the Putnam Examination and the Indiana College Mathematics Competition.

            b.         To develop the skill to work collaboratively on challenging mathematics questions.

            c.         To participate in national and regional mathematics contests.

 

4.  Course Rationale: There is a recognized value in the mathematics community for student contests such as the Putnam Exam and the Indian College Mathematics Competition.  This course on mathematical problem solving is designed to increase interest among students in participating in these and other contests.  In addition, this course will provide future mathematics teachers an opportunity to learn about such contests. 

 

5.  Course Content: Examination of problems from various areas of mathematics, chosen from previous international, national, and regional mathematics contests, with discussion of the underlying mathematics.

 

6.  Course Format: discussion and exploration spurred by problems from mathematics contests.  The course will be a participatory experience where the instructor and students will actively work together to identify or develop the mathematics necessary to address the questions. 

 

7.  Methods of Evaluating Student Performance:  Course grades are determined primarily by student preparation and participation in class meetings, participation in an international, nation, or regional contest, and solution presentation following the contest.

 

8.  Evaluation of the Course: The instruction of the course is evaluated by departmental student evaluations and peer evaluation.  The course is reviewed and revised periodically by the Departmental Undergraduate Programs Committee.  

 

Revised by M. Karls, Fall 2005