MATH 54 - Fall 2018
Jeremy Meza
Sections: 12:30-2pm Evans 75 and 3:30-5pm Evans 2
Email: jdmeza [AT] berkeley [DOT] edu
Office Hours: Tues 10am-12pm in Evans Hall 1047
Course Website: bcourses
Section Format
Math is not a subject that can be passively learned. You need to work out examples, think critically, and ask questions.
These are not always easy tasks to accomplish! Linear algebra in particular will be difficult for many people; it differs
from the usual calculus sequence and is one of the first classes along the way towards "higher level math".
I strongly recommend you come to section having thought about the questions marked in green on the bcourses website.
Grading Policy
Your section grade will comprise 40% of your overall grade, broken down as follows:
- Quizzes (20%):
Quizzes will be held every Thursday in section and will cover material from the previous week and
the most recent Monday (but will not cover material from the Wednesday right before the quiz!)
They will typically be 15 min and consist of 1 or 2 problems. NO LATE QUIZZES WILL BE ACCEPTED.
It is for this reason that your 2 lowest quizzes are dropped.
If you are DSP student or student athlete, you should contact me to set up any accommodations.
- Homework (15%):
Homework will be graded on completeness. To earn a complete, you should do most of the problems,
with an effort towards problems you don't know how to do. Note that "most" here does not mean
51% of the problems. Homework due dates will be posted on the bcourses website. Your 2 lowest homework
grades will be dropped.
- Section (5%):
You should attend section. Your section grade will be determined by factors such as attendance,
participation in group activities, asking and answering questions, coming to office hours, etc.
Resources
I encourage you to come to Office Hours if you are struggling with the class.
If you cannot make the times listed above, you are welcome to attend another
GSI's Office Hours. You can find their information on the course webpage.
If you still find yourself in need, there is a Math 54 Adjunct Course
offered through the Student Learning Center (SLC), which offers tutoring 5 days a week. The Tang center also offers
Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS)
for any concerns that you may have. These resources are designed
specifically for you, so feel free to use them!