Math 258 - Spring 2008
Introduction to Number Theory

Syllabus: We plan to cover the following topics, most of which are related to chapter headings in the textbook. (In some cases, there will be handouts to supplement the textbook.)

• the Euclidean algorithm
• congruences in Z
• primes and factorization
• Fermat's and Euler's theorems
• the Gaussian integers Z[i]
• rings and fields
• number theory of polynomials
• the Chinese remainder theorem
• quadratic reciprocity
• finite fields.

Prerequisites: Math 213. In particular, you are expected to remember something about writing proofs, although the course itself will provide a lot of further practice.

Course grade:  This will be based on the following weighting: homework (30%), midterm (30%), and final exam (40%).

Homework: Homework assignments will be posted on the bottom of this web page. No late homeworks will be accepted.

• An integral part of each homework is the assigned reading from the text (or handout) and the re-reading of your lecture notes. Focus on both explanations and examples.
• Homework will be done in student groups. The procedure will be discussed during class in the first week.
• Each student's lowest homework grade is going to be dropped.
• You are encouraged to discuss homework problems with the instructor during office hours.
• It is a mistake to skip homework, because no skills (in mathematics, foreign language, athletics, and so on) can be learned by passive involvement, but only by regular practice. Moreover, many skills are learned over time, so do not expect to understand everything perfectly right away. You should find your understanding of basic topics improving gradually from one week to the next.
• Proofs on homeworks should not be simply a string of logical and mathematical symbols, but include complete sentences in English. The role of English is to explain the strategy of your proof and the details as well. There will not be partial credit based on having misunderstood a question.

Exams:  There will be one midterm and a final.  

• There are no makeup exams. If you miss the midterm, the grade is 0.
• You might be asked to bring UConn photo ID to the exams.
• If you need exam accommodations based on a documented disability, you need to speak with both the Center for Student Disabilities and the course instructor within the first two weeks of the semester.

Attendance: Since you will be working in groups, your workmates can get frustrated if you regularly skip class and then cannot meaningfully contribute to the homework.

Course conduct: To respect everyone's right to a productive learning environment, please refrain from disruptive activities during class. This includes reading newspapers or magazines, and using pagers and cell phones. Set cell phones on vibrate mode only. If your cell phone receives a message, you can check it after class. Please turn off all other electronic gadgets before entering the classroom. On a positive note, do feel free to ask questions!

Academic integrity: Students are expected to avoid academic misconduct. Your integrity is not worth losing (and the course not worth failing) by falsely presenting yourself in any aspect of this course. For further information on academic integrity, see Part VI of the Student Code.