Course Syllabus

CP 214 A and Discrete Structures for Computer Science

Physics & Computer Science Department, Faculty of Science, Waterloo (In-person)
Fall| 2025| 12-week course

I acknowledge that in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, and Brantford we are on the traditional territory
of the Neutral, Anishnawbe, and Haudenosaunee peoples.

Instructor Information
Md Asif Khan
Email: [email protected] (your email subject should include “CP214”)
Weekly Office Hours: Online by Appointment

Teaching Assistant Information

Tudor Stoica
Email: [email protected]
Weekly Office Hours: TBA

Course Information
Finite and discrete algebraic structures relating to computers: sets, functions, relations. Machine-oriented
logic. Topics include: propositional and predicate calculus, Boolean algebra, combinatorial counting
(including Pigeonhole principle, permutations and combinations), relations (including equivalence
relations, partial orders), induction and recursive programs, countable and uncountable sets, Cantor’s
theorem, introduction to graph theory.

Prerequisites: CP164 or registration in B. Eng. Software Engineering.

Course location: Tuesday & Thursday
04:00 PM - 05:20 PM
Waterloo Campus | Lazaridis Hall | Room LH1001

Course Overview and Approach

This course introduces students to the foundational ideas and techniques of Discrete Mathematics, a
cornerstone of computer science. It is structured around five major themes that build both conceptual
understanding and problem-solving skills:
1. Mathematical Reasoning: Students will learn the principles of mathematical logic and proof,
developing the ability to read, comprehend, and construct mathematical arguments.
2. Combinatorial Analysis: Students will practice counting and enumeration techniques to solve
combinatorial problems.

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 3. Discrete Structures: Core concepts such as sets, permutations, relations, recursion, graphs, and
trees will be explored, with emphasis on representing discrete objects and relationships using
abstract structures.
4. Algorithmic Thinking: Students will analyze algorithms, verify their correctness, and evaluate
their efficiency in terms of time and memory.
5. Applications of Discrete Mathematics: Students will examine how discrete mathematics is
applied to real-world problems, with opportunities to formulate and model problems using the
techniques learned.

This course introduces students to the core principles of Discrete Mathematics, a foundation of
computer science. Organized thematically, the course covers five areas: mathematical reasoning,
combinatorial analysis, discrete structures (sets, relations, graphs, trees, recursion), algorithmic thinking,
and real-world applications. Students will develop skills in logical argumentation, problem modeling, and
algorithm analysis, while also exploring how discrete mathematics underpins computing.

The course is fast-paced and requires consistent engagement with lectures, problem-solving activities,
and independent study. Some topics will be supported with expert video materials to broaden
perspectives. Class time will emphasize key concepts and applications, while assessments and activities
are aligned to reinforce outcomes. Students are expected to come prepared, participate actively, and
keep up with the weekly schedule to excel.

Course Goals and Learning Outcomes

This course provides students with a solid foundation in discrete mathematics, preparing them for
advanced courses in algorithms, data structures, and theoretical computer science. It supports program-
level outcomes by introducing and reinforcing mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, and
algorithmic analysis skills essential to the discipline of computer science.

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Apply knowledge of discrete mathematics and computing to solve fundamental problems in
computer science.
2. Construct and evaluate mathematical arguments using formal logic and proof techniques.
3. Perform combinatorial analysis and apply enumeration methods to problem-solving.
4. Represent and analyze discrete structures such as sets, relations, functions, graphs, trees, and
recursive definitions.
5. Analyze and compare algorithms in terms of correctness, efficiency, and resource trade-offs.
6. Model and formulate computer science problems using discrete mathematical concepts and
techniques.

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Course Textbooks and Learning Materials

Item Required Cost Current or Notes/Features (i.e.

or Most physical copy, virtual
Optional Recent copy, second-hand
Cost* availability, special
features, etc.)
Rosen, K. H. (2018). Required DTA eligible $101.39* eText
Discrete (8th Other Renting and buying options
Mathematics and edition) are available at https://wlu-
Its Applications (8th store.vitalsource.com/products/ise-
ed.). New York, NY: discrete-mathematics-and-its-
McGraw Hill. ISBN: applicationskenneth-rosen-
9781260289701 v9781260289701

*If the most recent cost is listed, the current year's cost was unavailable when the syllabus was
prepared. The cost is subject to change.

THE OPT OUT DEADLINE FOR FALL 2025 (12-week course) is September 19, 2025. Please email
[email protected] if you have any questions related to your DTA course. If you have questions
about your student account, or fees, please visit Service Laurier directly.

Students should have a nonprogrammable calculator for use on the assessments. The Casio
FX300MSPlus calculator is recommended.

Course Strategies and Supports

All course materials, including lecture slides, assignments, projects, and rubrics, will be posted on the
course D2L page.

Student Evaluation

Assessment Weighting
Midterm 20%
Final exam 45%
Quizzes 15%
Assignments 20%
Total 100%

Learning Activities, Assignments, Tests, Quizzes and Examinations

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Assessment in this course is designed to reinforce mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, and
application of discrete mathematics to computer science. Each assessment is aligned with course
learning outcomes and provides opportunities for practice, feedback, and demonstration of mastery.

1. Online Assignments/Quizzes
• Purpose: Assess comprehension of weekly content and provide low-stakes practice.
• Alignment: Reinforces outcomes related to logical reasoning, sets, counting, and problem
modeling.
• Format: Timed, online multiple-choice and short-answer questions.
• Preparation: Review lecture notes, textbook exercises, and shared supplementary materials.
• Support: Practice problems from Discrete Mathematics and Its Applications (Rosen, 8th ed.) will
guide preparation.
• Late Submission Policy: Late submission will be marked with ZERO.

2. Midterm Examination
• Purpose: Evaluate the ability to apply logic, proof strategies, and discrete structures.
• Format: Mix of short-answer, problem-solving, and proof-based questions.
• Support: In-class review session and sample problems provided before the exam.
• Missed Midterm: If a midterm exam is missed, it will be graded as ZERO unless there's a
legitimate documented reason. The option to shift the exam's weight is reserved exclusively for
students with confirmed exceptional circumstances and applied. An exceptional circumstance
refers to an unusual and significant event that is beyond the student's control or predictability,
such as a severe accident or an urgent medical condition.

3. Final Examination
• The final examination will be scheduled by the Examinations Office of the University. I will
provide you with the date, time, and location as soon as they become available.
• Coverage: Cumulative, with emphasis on Weeks 6–12.
• Purpose: Assess mastery of problem-solving, algorithmic reasoning, and applications of discrete
mathematics.
• Format: Comprehensive written exam with multiple-choice, short-answer, and proof-based
questions.
• Support: Final review session, textbook problem sets, and online resources.
• In order to pass Year 1 and Year 2 Computer Science required courses, students must pass the
course's final exam.

Weekly Schedule(s) (Tentative)

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Week # and Topic, Theme or Related reading Learning Activities
Date Unit of Study
1 Introduction and Chapter 1
(Sep 4 & Sep Propositional 1.1-1.3 • Review the shared content and
9) Logic
links for study.
2 (Sep 11 & Chapter 1
Sep 16) Predicate Logic 1.4, 1.5, 1.7 • Review the shared content and
and Proofs
links for study.
• Quiz 1 (content covered during
week 1 & 2) due Sep 21 at
11:59 PM.
3 (Sep 18 &
Sep 23) Sets and Chapter 2 • Review the shared content and
Functions 2.1-2.3 links for study.
4 (Sep 25 & Chapter 2 • Review the shared content and
Sep 30) Relations and 2.6 links for study.
Matrices Chapter 9
9.1
5 (Oct 2 • Review the shared content and
&Oct 7) Induction and Chapter 5 links for study.
Recursion 5.1, 5.2, 5.3, 5.4
• Quiz 2 (content covered during
week 3, 4, 5) due Oct 12 at
11:59 PM.
Oct 14 READING WEEK Prepare ahead
Oct 19
6 (Oct 9 & • Midterm on Oct 21 covers
Oct 21) Counting Chapter 6 topics from Week 1 to 5
6.1 • Review the shared
content and links for
study.
• Assignment 1 (content
covered during week 1 - 5)
due Oct 26 at 11:59 PM.
7 (Oct 23& Chapter 6 • Review the shared
Oct 28) Counting 6.2,6.3 content and links for
study.
• Review the shared
8 (Oct 30& Discrete Chapter 7 content and links for
Nov 4) Probability 7.1,7.2,7.3 study.
• Quiz 3 (content covered
during week 6, 7 & 8) due
Nov 09 at 11:59 PM.

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 Week # and Topic, Theme or Related reading Learning Activities
Date Unit of Study
9 (Nov 6 & Chapter 10 • Review the shared
Nov 11) Graphs 10.1-10.3 content and links for
study.
10 (Nov Chapter 10 • Review the shared
13& Nov Graphs 10.4 (Intro), 10.5, content and links for
18) 10.6 study.
11 (Nov Chapter 10 • Review the shared
20& Nov 10.8 content and links for
25) Trees Chapter 11 study.
11.1-11.4 • Quiz 4 (content covered
during weeks 9, 10 & 11)
Nov 30 at 11:59 PM.
12 (Nov Boolean Algebra Chapter 12 • Review the shared
27& Dec 2) 12.1, 12.2, 12.3 content and links for
study.
• Assignment 2 (content
covered during week 6 -
11) due Dec 02 at 11:59
PM.
13 Final Study the relevant
Cumulative, with emphasis on
Dec 6 -- Examination chapters and articles
Weeks 6–12.
Dec 20 from the textbook
ALL THE BEST!

University and Course Policies

1. Academic Calendars: Students are encouraged to review the Academic Calendar for information
regarding all important dates, deadlines, and services available on campus.

2. Accessibility: Contact Accessible Learning if you require academic accommodations because of a

disability. Review the Registration page for information about intake and documentation
requirements. Deadlines: Students are responsible for meeting posted deadlines for registering
with Accessible Learning and booking accommodated exams. Accessible Learning cannot
guarantee accommodations for requests received after posted deadlines.

3. Library Accessibility Services: The Library offers accessibility services for people with disabilities,
including alternate formats or remediation of Library collections and help accessing materials.
For information, please visit the Library Accessibility Hub or email [email protected].

4. Plagiarism: Wilfrid Laurier University uses software that can check for plagiarism. If requested to
do so by course instructors, students are required to submit their written work in electronic

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 form and have it checked for plagiarism.

5. Academic Integrity: Laurier is committed to a culture of integrity within and beyond the
classroom. This culture values trustworthiness (e.g., honesty, integrity, reliability), fairness,
caring, respect, responsibility and citizenship. Together, we have a shared responsibility to
uphold this culture in our academic and non-academic behaviour. The University has a defined
policy with respect to academic misconduct. As a Laurier student you are responsible for
familiarizing yourself with this policy and the accompanying penalty guidelines, some of which
may appear on your transcript if there is a finding of misconduct. The relevant policy can be
found at Laurier's academic integrity website along with resources to educate and support you
in upholding a culture of integrity. Ignorance is not a defense.

6. Final Examinations: Students are strongly urged not to make any commitments (e.g., vacation)
during the examination period. Students are required to be available for examinations during
the examination periods of all terms in which they register. Refer to the Handbook on
Undergraduate Course Management for more information.

7. Religious and Spiritual Accommodation: The University welcomes students, staff and faculty
from a wide range of backgrounds, beliefs and traditions and has a duty to provide
accommodation based on creed (religion and spirituality) under the Ontario Human Rights Code.
This obligation requires the University to work with students to provide reasonable
accommodation when a student's religious observances or spiritual beliefs creates a conflict
with their academic schedule. In order for instructors to provide proper accommodations,
students have obligations to request accommodations in a timely manner. All policies,
procedures, timelines, and request forms are found on Laurier’s Religious and Spiritual
Accommodations and Supports webpage.

8. Gender Inclusivity: “This course will be held in a respectful and supportive environment for
people of all gender identities and expressions. I’ve received a class roster based on official
enrollment information. If you go by a different name, please feel free to let me know. You're
also welcome to share your pronouns, if you’d like.

Everyone is encouraged to refer to classmates using the names and pronouns they share. If
you're comfortable, you’re welcome to let the class know how you'd like to be addressed.

The Centre for Student Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (CSEDI) shares information on updating
your name in systems like Zoom, MyLS, and email, along with details on other supports
available”

9. Classroom Use of Electronic Devices: Students are encouraged to make informed decisions
regarding technology use during class and assessment. Some devices are distracting during
learning and can disrupt the learning of others. Off-task use of technology (e.g., communicating
with friends or family; using social networking sites; playing games; accessing the internet on
websites that do not relate to the course; reading an electronic book that is not related to the
course; playing music or video, etc.) during instruction which are distracting to self or others are
prohibited.

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10. The use of generative AI is not permitted in this course. Using generative AI to aid in or fully
complete your coursework will be considered academic misconduct and Senate Policy 12.2
Student Code of Conduct: Academic Misconduct will be applied.

11. Intellectual Property: “The educational materials developed for this course, including, but not
limited to, lecture notes and slides, handout materials, examinations and assignments, and any
materials posted to MyLearningSpace, are the intellectual property of the course instructors.
These materials have been developed for student use only and they are not intended for wider
dissemination and/or communication outside of a given course. Posting or providing
unauthorized audio, video, or textual material of course content to third-party websites violates
instructors’ intellectual property rights, and the Canadian Copyright Act. Recording lectures in
any way is prohibited in this course unless specific permission has been granted by instructors.
Failure to follow these instructions may be in contravention of the university’s Student Non-
Academic Code of Conduct and/or Code of Academic Conduct , and will result in appropriate
penalties. Participation in this course constitutes an agreement by all parties to abide by the
relevant University Policies, and to respect the intellectual property of others during and after
their association with Wilfrid Laurier University.”

1. Hawk Walk, the Wellness Centre, Student Supports and the Student Food Bank
(Recommended): The University approved the inclusion of information about select wellness
and safety services and supports on campus in the course information provided to students.
(Approved by Senate November 28, 2011.) Specific language (by campus) is provided below.

Multi-campus Resources (provided through Your Students’ Union): Waterloo, Brantford,

Milton, Kitchener
• Student Rights Advisory Committee ([email protected]): The Student Rights Advisory
Committee exists to provide you with information about your rights when it comes to
landlord-tenant issues or academic appeals. While in no way legal representation, it can
help to inform you about your options to make difficult situations easier to navigate.
• Empower Me - Mental Health Resources provided by Dialogue: Empower Me is a free,
24/7 mental health and well-being service available to undergraduate students all year-
round. It offers confidential, multilingual, and inclusive support through professionals in
areas such as psychology, psychotherapy, nutrition, financial literacy, career services and
more. You can access these services by phone, video, or in-person.
• The Essentials - Legal Care Program: Essentials Legal Care gives students access to certified
legal advice for issues like housing, employment, academic disputes, and more. After
submitting the Support Form, you can expect a response from legal counsel within 48
business days.

Multi-Campus Resources (provided by the university):

Student Wellness Centre
The Student Wellness Centre supports your physical, emotional, and mental well-being through
a wide range of services. You’ll have access to doctors, nurses, counsellors, mental health
nurses, dietitians, and sexual health support, all in a safe and welcoming environment. Taking
care of your whole self is key to your success, and we're here to help.

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Dean of Students Office
If you’re dealing with complex challenges or extenuating circumstances that are impacting your
academics, the Student Care and Support team in the Dean of Students’ Office can help. They
offer coordinated support for situations like hospitalizations, personal or family emergencies, or
issues that involve multiple areas of campus. They’ll work with you to connect to resources and
create a plan for moving forward.

Accessible Learning
If you’re experiencing challenges that affect your learning, Accessible Learning can help. They
support students with permanent, temporary, suspected, or ongoing disabilities by creating
individualized accommodation plans. These plans adjust tasks, activities, or learning
environments to support your access and success. You don’t need a diagnosis or documentation
to reach out and explore what support may be available to you.

Financial Literacy & Money Management

Dollars and Sense is Laurier’s money management program designed to help students decrease
their financial stress and increase their financial wellness. They provide the necessary
information, one-on-one financial coaching, resources and tools so that students can make the
financial decisions that are right for them.

Find Your Support Resource

Laurier offers a wide range of mental health resources designed to support both your academic
success and personal well-being. We understand that knowing where to begin can feel
confusing, but help is available. Every department provides specialized support, so don’t
hesitate to contact any office. The staff are here to guide you through your options and help you
find the support that best fits your needs.

Emergency Services / After-Hours Assistance - [email protected]

• If you’re in crisis or need immediate assistance, you can call 911 or Laurier’s Special
Constable Service at 519.885.3333.
• For mental health crises, call or text 988, or contact Here 24/7 at 1.844.437.3247

Kitchener/Waterloo Resources:
• Emergency Response Team | [email protected]: The Emergency Response Team provides medical
assistance to students on campus. ERT can be booked for on-site event support by filling out
the online booking request form on their website.
• Hawk Walk | 519.886.3668 | [email protected] | Hawk Walk is a volunteer-run safe walk
service available every evening. Pairs of volunteers can escort students to and from campus
or nearby locations. Visit them on the 2nd floor of the Fred Nichols Campus Centre, next to
the Dean of Students Office.
• Food Bank | [email protected] | Food Bank provides food parcels to cater to the
nutritional and dietary needs of students. All students are eligible to use this service,
regardless of circumstance or financial situation. Request a package at
https://www.yourstudentsunion.ca/food-bank

Brantford Resources:

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 • Food Bank | [email protected] | Food Bank provides food parcels to cater to the
nutritional and dietary needs of students. All students are eligible to use this service,
regardless of circumstance or financial situation. Request a package at
https://www.yourstudentsunion.ca/food-bank
• Hawk Walk | 519.751.7875 | [email protected] | Hawk Walk is a volunteer-run safe walk
service available every evening. Pairs of volunteers can escort students to and from campus
or nearby locations. Visit them in the basement of the Student Centre beside the Clubs &
Associations Storage Space.

Milton Resources:
• In case of Emergency, contact Special Constable Services at 519.885.3333

For more information about all the services provided through your Students' Union visit
yourstudentsunion.ca/wellness

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