The goal of the project is different than that of homework problems. The project is a research assignment that has a general goal, but may not have a clear answer. You are supposed to use the knowledge acquired in the class, to think about the problem for several days, to ask new questions and to try to answer them, to stir your imagination, and to search for suitable references. Start today, and let your subconscious work for you. Solutions will come to you at the strangest times!

Specifics:

1.

Most likely, the week of March 19, one copy of each project will be posted on my office door (214B), along with a sign up sheet. One group of 3 or 4 will work on one project, and two groups cannot do the same project. Thus, projects will be assigned on a first-come first-serve basis.

2.

Take your schedules into account when forming groups, so that frequent meetings are possible.

3.

If you have no other choice, you may sign up for a project that interests you, even if you do not identify others in the group.

4.

The progress report does not need to contain the work you have done to date, just a description of the number of meetings of your group, how work has been divided up (or not), and any significant results or questions to date. It should be neatly presented, and at least one page.

5.

You may need to do some outside reading in your textbook, or in other books in the library.

6.

You may come to me with questions, and I will let you know if you are on the right track. But expect help sessions to be completely verbal, and that most of your questions will be answered by a question.

7.

When you have done the work necessary to complete the project, you need to prepare it in written form. The paper you turn in should have a mix of equations, formulas and prose to support your conclusions. Use complete sentences, good grammar and correct punctuation. It should be written in such a way that it can be read and understood by anyone who knows the material in this course. You will be graded on your written presentation as well as the mathematical content.

8.

At the time the projects are turned in, you will hand in a sheet giving your assessment of the contributions of yourself and the other members of your group. It is not automatic that all members will get the same grade on the project.