MATH10001 - 2010/2011

 

Specification

Aims

The aims of this course unit are to help students

• improve mathematical writing and problem solving skills;
• experience important mathematical ideas not covered in other first year modules;
• develop presentation skills.

Brief Description of the unit

These weekly classes are intended to help students experience a wide range of mathematical topics. The course unit includes a number of projects to be worked on in groups. The projects are assessed via a written report. Marks will be awarded for presentation as well as mathematical content to encourage the development of good writing habits.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this course unit students will be able to

• understand introductory material in geometry, number theory, graph theory, and dynamical systems;
• work in groups;
• write clear and accurate mathematical reports;
• use Word to produce diagrams and mathematical text.

Future topics requiring this course unit

This course unit is not a formal prerequisite for later courses but the approaches to problem solving with be beneficial in later Mathematical study.

Content

• Week 01: Study skills lecture and teamworking activity.
• Week 02: Project 1  Modular Arithmetic.
• Week 03: Project 1  Modular Arithmetic.
• Week 04: Group presentations
• Week 05: Project 2  Conic Sections
• Week 06: Mid semester break.
• Week 07: Project 2  Conic Sections
• Week 08: Project 3  Difference Equations.
• Week 09: Project 3  Difference Equations.
• Week 10: Project 4  Graph Theory.
• Week 11: Project 4  Graph Theory.
• Week 12: In class test.
  

Textbooks

Teaching and learning methods

Three hours contact time per week made up of one hour lecture followed by two hours of problem solving in groups. In addition students are expected to do at least five hours private study each week on this course unit.

Assessment

Projects 1, 2, 3, 4  - 15% each,

Group Presentation - 5%,

Test - 35%.

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Arrangements