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General Info
Course Description:
In the course we will study vectors, vector functions, and curves in two and three dimensions; surfaces, partial derivatives, gradients, and directional derivatives; multiple integrals in rectangular, polar, cylindrical, and spherical coordinates. We will also consider different physical and geometric applications of multi-variable Calculus.
We will cover (parts of) Chapters 10, 11, 12 and 13 from the class textbook. The specific sections from these chapters to be covered are listed in the class study guide, and will also be outlined on the class Calendar.
Learning Outcomes: After completing this class, successful students will be able to:
- Represent vectors both algebraically and geometrically and be able to use vector methods effectively in problem solving.
- Use the dot and cross product to solve problems in a geometrical or physical setting.
- Apply partial derivatives, directional derivatives, and gradients to solve problems of multivariable differential calculus such as max-min problems and rates of change of physical processes in space.
- Evaluate multiple integrals in rectangular, polar, spherical, and cylindrical coordinates.
- Use vector functions to analyze particle motion (position vectors, components of acceleration) and to represent curves parametrically.
- Integrate and differentiate vector functions.
Prerequisites: MTH 252: Integral Calculus
Required Textbook, Study Guide and MyMathLab Account:
- Multivariable Calculus (Custom Edition) Briggs and Cochran, Pearson Learning, 2011
- MTH 254 Study Guide, by Hal Parks (on MyMathLab)
- MyMathLab Course Id: gibson88382
For MyMathLab access follow these instructions to register
Reading Assignments: Look at the Calendar for a day to day schedule of Lessons and sections from the textbook that will be covered. For Lessons refer to the class study guide.
While it may not be stated explicitly each day, students are expected to read each section to be covered before class. Questions not addressed during class time should be asked in recitation. Any questions still unanswered may be asked in office hours. Students should also take full advantage of the tutoring services provided in the MLC (Kidder 108).
Students are responsible for any material missed due to absence.
As preparation for this class, you should review the materials covered in MTH 251 and 252.
Special arrangements: For students with disabilities please contact Professor Gibson and Disability Access Services. For all types of special arrangements appropriate documentation will be required.
Course Drop/Add Information: See Office of the Registrar and Academic Calendars
Online Homework 10% Recitation Assignments 10% Two Midterm Exams 25% each Final Exam 30%
Grade Scale (by percentage)
A 93 A- 90 B+ 87 B 83 B- 80 C+ 77 C 73 C- 70 D+ 67 D 63 D- 60
Online Homework
There will be (approximately) eight online assignments posted on MyMathLab. Assignments will consist of problems similar to the study guide.
Recitation Assignments
There will be (approximately) eight quizzes and/or group work assignments given in the recitations. Problems will be similar to the suggested homework problems for the sections covered.
Exams
- Midterm Exams
There will be two in class midterm exams approximately after Chapters 11 and 12. Books, notes, or graphing/programmable calculators will NOT be allowed on exams. You will be allowed (both sides) of a 3x5 index card, plus any card from a previous exam. Exam problems will (mostly) be similar to problems from the online homework assignments, recitation problems, and lecture notes. See Sample Exam. - Final Exam
A comprehensive final exam will be given. Books, notes, or graphing/programmable calculators will NOT be allowed on exams. You will be allowed (both sides) of a 3x5 index card, plus any cards from previous exam. Exam problems will (mostly) be similar to problems from the online homework assignments, recitation problems, and lecture notes. Scheduling conflicts with the final exam must be resolved in advance.
Course Links:
Calendar for Math 254
MyMathLab Login
Other Links:Professor Gibson's Homepage
Mathematics Learning Center (MLC) Department of Mathematics
Oregon State University