Functional Programming

The course is divided into two parts. In the first, we concentrate on basic LISP programming issues, while in the second, more significant programming projects are undertaken. The homework and project demands are quite high, since LISP is different from most programming languages and takes some time to learn. However, the paybacks can be substantial, as LISP is a fantastic prototyping language, preferred of many both within and outside of AI.

Students will gain insights into the principles of functional programming along with practical skills in using one functional language, LISP.

Standard lectures, homeworks that count toward the final grade, and a pair of mid-semester exams. It is strongly recommended that students come to the lectures.


Grading is based on the following:

25% - the first group of homeworks (normally 6)
25% - the second group of large homeworks/projects (normally 3)
50% - the midterm exam (the best of 2 120-minute exams)

To pass the course, a student must:

1) Achieve a total number of percentage points above a certain threshold, T1.

2) Achieve a number of percentage points ON THE MIDTERM EXAM above another threshold, T2.

Both T1 and T2 are determined during the course of the class, based on the difficulty of the homeworks and exams. Normally they lie between 30% and 40%.

In the case of delayed exams for individual students, an oral exam may be given by the instructor.