Introduces selected topics from advanced algebra, including number systems and proofs, that are outside the traditional high school math sequence. Recommended for students interested in deepening their mathematical thinking.
Can you solve a geometry problem more easily if there is a square root of -1? Are "proofs" just for Geometry or can they apply to Algebra as well? This course covers algebra topics outside of what is usually taught in high school, including topics that are more advanced as well as topics that are just different than usual. Besides gaining a deeper understanding of algebra, students will learn problem-solving skills and how to think about mathematics. Students will justify facts of algebra by writing informal proofs. The atmosphere of the class is cooperative. The emphasis is on understanding why something is true and explaining it, not merely on obtaining answers. Topics include familiar algebraic properties (such as the distributive property) and unfamiliar properties of other operations (such as anticommutativity); number systems, the square root of -1, and complex numbers; and modular arithmetic ("clock arithmetic"). We explore these topics both because they are interesting and to help students become more conscious of operations and their algebraic properties. That is intended to help them in future classes, to help them to have deeper conceptual understanding and to avoid common mistakes. Thus, although this course mostly covers different topics from Algebra II/Integrated Math 3, it will provide additional preparation to students entering those classes.
Open to all qualified students
Deals
The amount of available financial aid depends on the number of paying applicants, so the maximum amount of aid awards may be more limited this year than previously.
https://atdp.berkeley.edu/fa/