Homework set #1 changes

I've decided to make a small modification to homework set #1, so that we'll have enough time to cover all the concepts presented in chapter 2. For homework set #1, do the questions for chapters 1, 2, and 3, but DO NOT do the questions for chapter 4. These will be saved for homework set #2.

Lectures 1 and 2 have been posted

The first and second lectures for the class have been posted. The links for them are on the right sidebar. They are saved as PDF files, so you need Adobe Reader or Preview (if you have a Mac) to read them. You can download a free version of Adobe Reader here.

Instead of posting the entire lectures, these are abbreviated versions. I have omitted most of the pictures and extra stuff that is not in the textbook. This will make download times faster and make it easier to use the slides for studying. If you are interested in the full versions of the class lectures, send me an email. Be warned though, the full lectures are 100x or more in size.

What I suggest is that after you read each chapter, you use these slides as a study aid. This will help you know which sections of the book are most important to review before the Midterm and Final exams.

Discussion section schedule for week 1

In class, I discussed doing different things in different discussion sections. Clearly this is not a good idea, because not all of you will be able to make it to each discussion section.

Instead, for each week we will have a different discussion section topic. At the beginning of the week I'll make a post on the website describing what that topic will be. You can come to any of the discussion sections that you would like (or none of them). Since the class is sufficiently small, there is no sign up required.

This week, we will be doing a review of the basic math skills you should be familiar with. This includes scientific notation, unit conversions, and ratios. Attendance is not required, but if you think you may be rusty with any of these, I highly suggest that you come either Tuesday, May 26th at 1:10 pm or Wednesday, May 27th at 9:10 am.

Homework #1 is now available

The first homework set is available here. Be sure to have it ready at the beginning of class on Wednesday, June 3rd.

Course materials posted

The Syllabus has been posted, along with the Research Paper Topics and the Observing Projects List. Be sure to get started on the Research Paper and the Observing Projects as soon as possible, since they will take some time to complete.