Math 221: Introduction to Linear Algebra
Spring 2013
Mo We 1:00 - 2:15, MP 103

Instructor:
Andrei Draganescu
Office: MP420
Phone: 410-455-3237
Email: draga@math.umbc.edu
Website: http://www.math.umbc.edu/~draga/courses/2013/Fall/math221

Office hours:
Mo We 4 - 5, or by appointment.

Prerequisites:
Math 141 or Math 151 or Math 151H or Math 380 with a grade of "C" or better.

Text:

• required: Linear Algebra and its Applications, by David C. Lay, Addison Wesley, 2012, Fourth Edition.

Course objectives:
This course serves as an introduction to linear algebra, vector spaces, and matrix computations. Linear algebra is an essential tool in most of applied mathematics; therefore, it is critical for most sciences that require quantitative reasoning. At the end of this course you are expected to gain familiarity with the following topics:

• existence and uniqueness of solutions of linear equations; expressing linear equations as vector equations or in matrix form; solving linear systems using row reduction;
• matrix operations and basic notions (operations, rank, invertibility, determinants);
• vector spaces and basic notions (independent sets, basis, dimension);
• eigenvalues and eigenvectors of matrices;
• least squares problems and orthogonality.

Schedule:
A tentative schedule will be posted here, and will be continuously updated.

Homework and Quizzes:
Homework will usually be assigned once a week and will be due a week later at the beginning of class. It will be posted on Blackboard. I encourage you to discuss homework problems with colleagues, but the submitted write-up should be the result of individual work only. We expect to have a number of quizzes (announced or not announced). Homework and quizzes carry equal weight, and the lowest two scores will be dropped.

Tests:
There will two exams and one final exam (comprehensive). The exams dates will be announced at least two weeks prior to each exam. We will observe the final exam schedule set by the University. None of the exams are optional, and are closed-book. Calculators and other computing devices are not allowed on any in-class exams or quizzes.

Grading policy:
Homework and Quizzes - 20%, Tests - 25 % each, Final Exam - 30%

Score above	90%	80%	65%	50 %	otherwise
Letter grade	A	B	C	D	F