Math 448 - Topology

Instructor: Brian Lins
Class Times & Location: MWF 1:30-2:20 Bagby 020
Office Hours: See my weekly schedule, and also by appointment.
Text: Topology Now!, by Robert Messer & Philip Straffin.

Announcements

Course Description

Math 448 will begin with a discussion of important topological concepts like continuity, topological equivalence, and invariants. Then we will study knot theory, surfaces, and fixed point theory. We will finish with general topological spaces and metric spaces.

Tentative Schedule

The schedule below is tentative, and may be subject to change. Changes will be announced in class, and you are responsible for knowing about any changes even if you miss the class when they are announced.
Tentative Schedule
Weekly schedule & homework

Grading Policy

The term grade will be based on the results of the examinations, the scores on written homework, and on class participation. The grade is determined as follows:
  Class Participation     20% points  
  Written Homework     20% points  
  Midterm 1     15% points  
  Midterm 2     15% points  
  Final Exam     30% points  

Exams

There will be two midterm exams and a cumulative final. The midterm exams will each count for 15% of the term grade and the final exam will count for 25% points. The exams may include both in-class and take home portions. The in-class portions of the exam will be closed book, however the during the take home portion of an exam, you may consult your textbooks.

Written Homework and Class Participation

Every week you will be expected to complete and turn in a written homework assignment. Some problems may be proofs, and all proofs should be written in complete sentences. In addition to the written homework, there will also be a large in-class portion of the grade, where you may be expected to read a proof or solve a problem, and then present it to the rest of the class. Each successful presentation will give you 1 presentation credit. Everyone is expected to recieve at least 3 presentation credits during the semester. These presentation credits, along with your class attendence will determine the class participation grade for the course.