Math 237: Calculus III

Spring 2014 Policy Information

Course Description
This course will build on your previous studies of calculus. This third semester course is a continuation of the study of functions you began in first semester calculus, but we will be studying more complicated functions than those you may have seen previously. These include functions defined using parametric equations, vector-valued functions, and functions of two or more variables. For each type of function we will try to understand the basic ideas of limits, continuity, differentiability and integrability. The core of this course deals with the material in Chapters 9 through 13 of the text. Additional material from Chapter 14 will be added if time allows.

Prerequisite
MATH 236 (or the equivalent) with a grade of C or better.

Textbook
Calculus III by Taalman/Kohn, published by W.H. Freeman. Available at the JMU Bookstore and online.

Stucture
This course is going to require a significant investment of your time. Lectures are a great way for you to see and appreciate math, but they don't do such a great job at giving you the mastery of the material. Since mathematics is learned by practice, homework is really the core of this course. In general, the more work you put in, the better you will do.

On-line Material
Course material will be posted on Canvas.

Grading
Homework: 10%
Each in-class exam: 20%
Final exam: 30%

Exams
The exams are currently scheduled for the following dates:

The final exam will be All exams will be given in Roop 327. See the full final exam schedule.

Any change to the exam dates above will be announced at least one week in advance.

Homework
I expect you to do all of the assigned homework problems. In addition, each assignment will contain six problems that will be designated for possible grading. These six problems are to be neatly written up for collection before the due date. At the beginning of the class on the day the problems are due, the roll of a die will be used to determine which of the six problems will be collected for grading. Current and completed homework assignments are posted online and on Blackboard.

Do the homework. Collaboration (but not copying!) is encouraged. Even though you will, at most, submit only one problem each assignment, the time you spend working on the homework will be invaluable. You'll need to write the solutions clearly, including the steps that you took to get your final answer. You should be writing up a solution, not just writing the answer.

Need a little extra help?
I love office hours. Please use them, and don't be afraid to send an email or give me a call. You can also get help at the Science and Math Learning Center in 200 Roop Hall. It is open most days of the week, is free, and you don't need an appointment!

Honor code
Remember that JMU has a strict honor code. While you are strongly encouraged to work with others in this class, the work you submit must be your own. Copying someone else's work won't help you learn the material and might just get you expelled.

Nature of the Course Content
(from course catalogue)
4 credits. Offered fall and spring. Vectors. Multivariate calculus. Prequisite: Math 236 with grade of "C" or better