Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2013-2014 (archived)
Module MATH1041: Problem Solving and Dynamics I
Department: Mathematical Sciences
MATH1041:
Problem Solving and Dynamics I
Type |
Open |
Level |
1 |
Credits |
20 |
Availability |
Available in 2013/14 |
Module Cap |
None. |
Location |
Durham
|
Prerequisites
- Normally grade A in A-Level Mathematics (or
equivalent).
Corequisites
- Calculus and Probability I (MATH 1061) and Linear Algebra I
(MATH 1071) and Analysis I (MATH1051)
Excluded Combination of Modules
- Maths for Engineers and Scientists (MATH1551), Single
Mathematics A (MATH1561), Single Mathematics B (MATH1571) and Foundation
Mathematics (MATH1641).
Aims
- To provide (a) explicit strategies for beginning, working on and
reflecting on open ended mathematical problems.
- (b) an understanding of elementary classical Newtonian
dynamics.
Content
- Rubric writing – keeping records of problem
solving.
- Problem solving using the techniques of: Specialising;
Generalising; Attack; Review; Proof.
- Dynamics Newton's laws, frames of
reference.
- Mass, force, energy, momentum, angular
momentum.
- Sample motions: simple harmonic oscillator.
- Projectiles.
- Charged particle in constant electromagnetic
field.
- Orbits.
- Waves on strings.
- Wave equation for small amplitude oscillations, separation
of variables.
Learning Outcomes
- By the end of the module students will: be able to engage in
explicit strategies for beginning, working on and reflecting on
mathematical problems;
- have an awareness of the basic concepts of Problem
Solving.
- Dynamics: Newtonian Mechanics, frames of reference, Newton's
laws.
- Sample motions.
- Two body systems.
- Waves on strings.
- students will have basic mathematical skills in the following
areas: Modelling; Spatial awareness; Abstract reasoning and problem
solving.
- students will have basic problem solving skills and further
their abilities in oral and written communication.
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.
- Seminars provide active engagement and feedback to the
learning process.
- Weekly homework problems provide formative assessment to guide
students in the correct development of their knowledge and skills. They
are also an aid in developing students' awareness of standards
required.
- The examination provides a final assessment of the achievement
of the student.
Teaching Methods and Learning Hours
Activity |
Number |
Frequency |
Duration |
Total/Hours |
|
Lectures |
27 |
7 in Michaelmas term (weeks 1,3,5,6,7,9,10) and 2 per week
for 10 weeks in Epiphany and Easter terms |
1 Hour |
27 |
|
Tutorials |
6 |
Fortnightly for weeks 13-19 and weekly in weeks
20,21 |
1 Hour |
6 |
■ |
Problems Classes |
4 |
Fortnightly in weeks 12-18 |
1 Hour |
4 |
|
Seminars |
14 |
Two per week in weeks 2,4,6,8 of Michaelmas Term, 1 per
week in other weeks of Michaelmas term |
1 Hour |
14 |
■ |
Preparation and Reading |
|
|
|
149 |
|
Total |
|
|
|
200 |
|
Summative Assessment
Component: Examination |
Component Weighting: 60% |
Element |
Length / duration |
Element Weighting |
Resit Opportunity |
Written examination |
1 hour and 45 minutes |
100% |
Yes |
Component: Continuous Assessment |
Component Weighting: 40% |
Element |
Length / duration |
Element Weighting |
Resit Opportunity |
Three assignments |
|
100% |
Yes |
- In Michealmas, a problem is assigned at the end of
each seminar to prepare for the next seminar. In Epiphany, a weekly
written assignment, normally consisting of solving problems from a Problem
Sheet and typically will be about 2 pages long. Students will have about
one week to complete each assignment.
■ 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