Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2005-2006 (archived)

Module MATH1641: FOUNDATION MATHEMATICS

Department: MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES

MATH1641: FOUNDATION MATHEMATICS

Type Open Level 1 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2005/06 Module Cap None. Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • GCSE Mathematics at grade C or better. Not normally for students with A level Mathematics grade C or better.

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • No mathematics module may be taken before or with this module.

Aims

  • The module is intended for students who wish to read mathematics to a standard approaching that of a single-subject A-level.
  • The emphasis is on the basic pure mathematics essential for a number of disciplines in the Natural and Social Sciences.

Content

  • Arithmetic, algebra, coordinate geometry in the plane, graphs.
  • Elementary trigonometry.
  • Elementary calculus, differentiation and integration with interpretation and applications.
  • Logarithmic and exponential functions.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • By the end of the module students will: be able to solve a range of predictable or less predictable problems in Mathematics.
  • have an awareness of the basic concepts of elementary theoretical mathematics.
  • have a broad knowledge and basic understanding of these subjects demonstrated through one or more of the following topic areas: Elementary Functions.
  • Calculus.
  • Algebra.
  • Co-ordinate geometry in the plane.
Subject-specific Skills:
    Key Skills:

    Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

    • Lectures demonstrate what is required to be learned and the application of the theory to practical examples.
    • Tutorials provide the practice and support in applying the methods to relevant situations as well as active engagement and feedback to the learning process.
    • Summative weekly coursework provides an incentive for students to consolidate the learning of material as the module progresses (there are no higher level modules in the department of Mathematical Sciences which build on this module). It serves as a guide in the correct development of students' knowledge and skills, as well as an aid in developing their awareness of standards required.
    • The end-of-year written examination provides a substantial complementary assessment of the achievement of the student.

    Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

    Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
    Lectures 40 2 per week for 20 weeks 1 Hour 40
    Tutorials/Practicals 20 1 per week for 20 weeks 1 Hour 20
    Preparation and Reading 140
    Total 200

    Summative Assessment

    Component: Examination Component Weighting: 90%
    Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
    Written examination 3 hours 100%
    Component: Coursework Component Weighting: 10%
    Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
    One written assignment each teaching week 100%

    Formative Assessment:

    45 minute collection paper in the first week of Epiphany term.

    ■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University