Math 400/500 Sec 8, Differential Geometry, Spring 2008

Course Information

Description: An independent reading course on the differential geometry of curves and surfaces. The goal is to prove and understand the Gauss-Bonnet Theorem, both the local and global versions. Students will work in groups to read the text and do the exercises in the text.

Time and Location: Varies with each student. Everybody will meet 4-5:30 Wednesdays in room 111 Cupples I.

Examination Schedule: There will be one exam, a final exam in which students will be asked to state, prove, and explain the Gauss-Bonnet Theorem.

Textbook: Elementary Differential Geometry, by Andrew Pressley, Springer Undergraduate Mathematics Series, 2001, ISBN 1852331526.

Pace: Four sections per week for the first eight weeks, then three sections per week for the last six weeks.

Requirements: Read the text and work the exercises. Three or four times during the semester I will meet with each student and ask to see the student's notebook of exercise solutions.

Instructor: Gary R. Jensen. His office is in room 104, Cupples I. Office phone is 935-6302, e-mail address is gary@math.wustl.edu, home phone 862-4569.

Office Hours: TBA and by appointment, in 104 Cupples I.

Grades: Your grade for the course will be based on your diligence in doing the reading and working the exercises in the text and on the final exam.