This is an archived handbook for a previous year. The current undergraduate and postgraduate handbooks can be viewed using the links above.
Undergraduate Handbook 2010-2011 (archived)
Module MATH1641: FOUNDATION MATHEMATICS
Department: Mathematical Sciences
MATH1641: FOUNDATION MATHEMATICS
| Type | Level | Credits | Availability | Module Cap | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open | 1 | 20 | Not available in 2010/2011 | None. | Durham |
Pre-requisites
- GCSE Mathematics at grade C or better. Not normally for students with A level Mathematics grade C or better.
Corequisites
- None.
Excluded Combinations
- 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 | Attendance Monitored |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lectures | 40 | 2 per week for 20 weeks | 1 Hour | 40 | |
| Tutorials/Practicals | 20 | 1 per week for 20 weeks | 1 Hour | 20 | Yes |
| Preparation and Reading | 140 | ||||
| Total | 200 |
Summative Assessment
| Component | Component Weighting | Element | Length/Duration | Element Weighting | Resit Opportunity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Examination | 90% | Written examination | 3 hours | 100% | |
| Coursework | 10% | One written assignment each teaching week | 100% |
Formative Assessment
45 minute collection paper in the first week of Epiphany term.
Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods
and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative
assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress
procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be
required to leave the University.