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MATH2581: ALGEBRA II

Please ensure you check the module availability box for each module outline, as not all modules will run in each academic year. Each module description relates to the year indicated in the module availability box, and this may change from year to year, due to, for example: changing staff expertise, disciplinary developments, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Current modules are subject to change in light of the ongoing disruption caused by Covid-19.

Type Open
Level 2
Credits 20
Availability Available in 2024/2025
Module Cap
Location Durham
Department Mathematical Sciences

Prerequisites

  • Calculus I (Maths Hons) (MATH1081) or Calculus I (MATH1061) and Linear Algebra I (Maths Hons) (MATH1091) or Linear Algebra I (MATH1071).

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combinations of Modules

  • Mathematics for Engineers and Scientists (MATH1551), Single Mathematics A (MATH1561), Single Mathematics B (MATH1571)

Aims

  • To introduce further concepts in abstract algebra and develop their theory.

Content

  • Rings and fields.
  • Examples of groups.
  • Group actions.
  • Homomorphisms and quotient groups.
  • Finitely generated abelian groups.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:

  • By the end of the module students will: be able to solve a range of predictable and unpredictable problems in Algebra.
  • have an awareness of the abstract concepts of theoretical mathematics in the field of Algebra.
  • have a knowledge and understanding of fundamental theories of these subjects demonstrated through one or more of the following topic areas: Rings and fields, example of groups, generators, homomorphisms.
  • Group actions, Equivalence relations.
  • Structure of finitely generated abelian groups.

Subject-specific Skills:

  • In addition students will have the ability to undertake and defend the use of alternative mathematical skills in the following areas with minimal guidance: Abstract reasoning.

Key Skills:

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Lecturing demonstrates what is required to be learned and the application of the theory to practical examples.
  • Weekly homework problems provide formative assessment to guide students in the correct development of their knowledge and skills.
  • Tutorials provide active engagement and feedback to the learning process.
  • The end-of-year examination assesses the knowledge acquired and the ability to solve predictable and unpredictable problems.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

ActivityNumberFrequencyDurationTotalMonitored
Lectures422 per week1 Hour42 
Tutorials10Fortnightly for 21 weeks1 Hour10Yes
Problems Classes9Fortnightly for 20 weeks1 Hour9 
Preparation and Reading139 
Total200 

Summative Assessment

Component: ExaminationComponent Weighting: 100%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Written examination3 hours100Yes

Formative Assessment

Four written assignments to be handed per term. Normally each will consist of solving problems from a Problems Sheet and typically will be about 2-3 pages long. Students will have about one week to complete each assignment.

More information

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