University of Virginia Library

IV.—MATHEMATICS.

PROFESSOR BLEDSOE.

ASSISTANT INSTRUCTOR, EDWARD B. SMITH.

In this school there are four classes:

In the first, or Junior Class, the student commences with the
study of Algebra; as he is supposed to have rendered himself
familiar with the various rules of Arithmetic before he enters
the University. After the first difficulties of Algebra are mastered,
the subjects of Algebra and Synthetic Geometry are simultaneously
pursued, until they are completed. Trigonometry and
Surveying are also taught to this class.

In the second, or Intermediate Class, the subjects taught are:
Nautical Astronomy, Navigation, Descriptive Geometry, with its
application to Spherical Projections, Shadows, and Perspective,
and Analytical Geometry.

The Senior Class studies the Differential and Integral Calculus.
To this class, a course of lectures is delivered on the History
of Mathematics, and another course on the Philosophy of
Mathematics.

There is also a class of Mixed Mathematics, designed exclusively
for such of the more advanced students as may desire to
study the subjects taught therein.

The course embraces the mathematical investigation of the
general laws of equilibrium and motion, both of solids and
fluids, with a variety of applications, especially to Physical Astronomy.

The instruction in each class is conveyed partly by lectures,
and partly by the systematic study of approved text-books, the
student being assisted by full and frequent explanations from the
Professor, and being constantly subjected to rigid examinations.
The progress of the student in every class is also tested by his
being required to perform written exercises, in which the principles
acquired are applied to the solution of particular problems.

The text-books used are: For the Junior Class, Davies' Bourdon's
Algebra, Legendre's Geometry and Trigonometry. For
the Intermediate Class, Pierce's Trigonometry, Davies' Surveying,
Descriptive Geometry, and Analytical Geometry. For the
Senior Class, Courtenay's Differential and Integral Calculus.
For the Class of Mixed Mathematics, Pratt's Mechanical Philosophy.

Any student entering the school has the privilege of attending
all or any of the classes, as he may elect, and if prepared to enter
an advanced class, may often find it highly advantageous to
review his previous studies by an attendance on a lower class
also.