Eligibility: CTY-level or Advanced CTY-level math score required
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Linear Algebra and Multivariable Calculus or equivalent
Course Format: Individually Paced
Course Length: Typically 6 months
Recommended School Credit: One full year of high school credit or one semester of college credit equal to or greater than an AP class
Course Code: IAM
Description
Introduction to Abstract Mathematics is an online and individually-paced college course taken after Linear Algebra and Multivariable Calculus. This course teaches a student how to construct logical arguments in the form of a proof to verify mathematical statements. Techniques and methods of proofs are taught through specific examples in set theory, group theory, and real analysis. This course introduces students to the logical and rigorous mathematical foundation which all higher level math courses require. Definitions and proofs will be stressed throughout the course. Online course materials supplement the required textbook.
Each student is assigned to a CTY instructor to help them during their course. Students can contact their instructor via email with any questions or concerns at any time. Live one-on-one online review sessions can be scheduled as well to prepare for the graded assessments, which include quizzes, homework, presentations, midterm exams, and a cumulative final. Instructors use virtual classroom software allowing video, voice, text, screen sharing and whiteboard interaction.
This course does not have any synchronous class meetings, but students may schedule one-on-one virtual meetings directly with the instructor to answer questions or concerns.
Virtual classrooms, and student activities in the classroom, may be recorded and added to the course as an ongoing asset for all class students to review. Videos from YouTube or other web providers may be present in the course. Video recommendations or links provided at end of videos are generated by the video host provider and are not CTY recommendations. Student contributions (e.g., projects, forum posts, etc.) may remain in the course after the student completes the course. These artifacts may be preserved to showcase student work or to continue important conversations.
For a detailed list of topics, click the "List of Topics" tab.
For enrollment starting on or after January 1, 2019, a proctor is required for this course if the student’s goal is to obtain a grade. Please review Proctor Requirements for more details.
A textbook and supplementary book are required for this course:
An Introduction to Abstract Mathematics by Robert J. Bond and William J. Keane. Published by Waveland Press.
Journey through Genius: The Great Theorems of Mathematics [Paperback] by William Dunham. Published by Penguin Books USA Inc.
Upon successful completion of the course, students will be able to demonstrate mastery over the following topics:
This course requires a properly maintained computer with high-speed internet access and an up-to-date web browser (such as Chrome or Firefox). The student must be able to communicate with the instructor via email. Visit the Technical Requirements and Support page for more details.
Zoom online virtual classroom
This course uses an online virtual classroom which can be used for instructor-student communication if the student has any questions about the course or curriculum. The classroom works on standard computers with the Zoom desktop client and also tablets or handhelds that support the Zoom Mobile app. Students will need a computer with the Zoom desktop client installed to watch any recorded meetings. The Zoom desktop client and Zoom Mobile App are both available for free download.