 | Catalogue of the University of Virginia |  |
IV.—MATHEMATICS.
PROFESSOR VENABLE.
In this school there are four classes:
In the first, or Junior Class, the subjects of study are the
General Properties of Numbers and theory of Notation, Algebra
Geometry and Plane Trigonometry. Though Algebra and
those who enter it should not only be thoroughly acquainted
with Arithmetic, but should also have previously pursued the
study of Algebra through equations of the second degree, and of
Geometry through the first four books.
In the second, or Intermediate Class, the subjects of study are
Plane and Spherical Trigonometry, with applications to Surveying,
Navigation, and Nautical Astronomy, Descriptive Geometry,
with its applications to Spherical Projections, Shades, Shadows,
and Perspective and Analytical Geometry.
In the third, or Senior Class, the subjects of study are Analytical
Geometry of three Dimensions, and the Differential and
Integral Calculus. Lectures are given to this class on the History
and Philosophy of Mathematics.
There is also a fourth class, that of Mixed Mathematics,
designed for the benefit of such of the more advanced students
as may desire to prosecute their studies beyond the limits of Pure
Mathematics.
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 select, and if prepared to
enter an advanced class, may often find it highly advantageous
to review his previous studies by attendance on a lower class also.
| Catalogue of the University of Virginia | |