In the new cadet class year algebra and geometry are taken on alternate days for three months. In both these subjects the matter covered by the entrance examination is reviewed rapidly and, in the case of plane geometry, very briefly before proceeding with the regular course. An examination is held in June upon which the class is graded according to mathematical capacity.
In the fourth-class year algebra is completed in alternation with trigonometry. Plane and solid analytical geometry and descriptive geometry follow.
In the third-class year a course in the differential and integral calculus is taken, alternating during the latter portion with the subject of mechanics in the department of philosophy. The most advanced students take also a brief course in the theory of errors and method of least squares.
The course in algebra covers the entire subject as generally taught in colleges, but the student is expected to have already mastered elementary algebra to include the progressions and the solution of the quadratic equation. The course in elementary geometry includes the books that relate to the plane and those that relate to space, but the student is expected to have mastered the former. Plane and spherical trigonometry includes the complete solution of the plane and spherical triangles. The course in analytical geometry includes the discussion of the general equation of the second degree in the plane and in space.
Descriptive geometry includes, in orthographic projections, the right line, the plane, ruled surfaces and surfaces of revolution, tangent planes and intersections of surfaces. It also covers shades and shadows, perspective, isometric projections and, for the upper part of the class, spherical projections.
The course in differential and integral calculus covers the ground of the usual college text-book, including briefly the subject of ordinary differential equations.
TEXT BOOKS.
NEW CADET CLASS.
- Advanced Course in Algebra. Wells.
- Elements of Geometry. Phillips and Fisher.