Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2026-2027

Module FOUD02M1: Advanced Mathematics 1

Department: Foundation Year (Durham)

FOUD02M1: Advanced Mathematics 1

Type Open Level 0 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2026/2027 Module Cap Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • None

Corequisites

  • Practice

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • General Mathematics

Aims

  • Advanced Mathematics 1 develops the mathematical knowledge and skills you will need to progress into maths-intensive degrees. The module develops your fluency in core techniques, your ability to apply mathematics to real-world problems, and your capacity to communicate mathematical ideas clearly.

Content

  • Algebra 
  • Trigonometry 
  • Graphs and functions 
  • Exponentials and logarithms 
  • The Binomial expansion 
  • Calculus 
  • Probability 
  • Mathematical problem solving

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • A range of foundational mathematical concepts and notations 
  • Relevant mathematical methods for solving problems 
  • Key subject-specific mathematical vocabulary
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Use a range of mathematical concepts to solve maths problems 
  • Apply relevant mathematical methods to solve maths problems 
  • Use mathematical vocabulary accurately in context 
  • Demonstrate fluency in core mathematical techniques through timed assessment
Key Skills:
  • Use logical reasoning to produce clear and effective written work, presenting mathematical methods leading to a justified conclusion 
  • Develop feedback literacy by self-marking and reflecting on your own performance through continuous assessment

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

  • Advanced Mathematics 1 is delivered through seminars and workshops.
  • In seminars, you will develop your academic skills and engage in teacher-led discussions and group activities. 
  • In workshops you will be given space to consolidate and apply your learning in a more hands-on, interactive way. This may include problem-based exercises in small groups or individually and include orientation tasks to help you reflect on your own learning, identify your strengths and areas to develop, and plan your future study. 
  • As well as timetabled sessions, you are expected to take responsibility for your own learning outside of class. Independent study may include: completing orientation and preparation tasks set by your tutor; undertaking pre-reading before seminars and workshops; answering practice questions and consolidating your understanding; and reading more widely around your subject.
  • The module is assessed through two components: a timed in-year test and a continuous assessment portfolio of mathematical problems. The continuous assessment tasks are designed to build progressively.
  • Feedback from each formative and summative assignment is designed to help you improve for future assignments, so it’s important to engage with the feedback you receive.
  • Advanced Mathematics 1 is the prerequisite for Advanced Mathematics 2. If you plan to take Advanced Mathematics 2 in the second part of the year, everything you learn in this module provides the foundation you will build on. Advanced Mathematics 1 cannot be combined with General Mathematics.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours Attendance Monitored
Seminars 10 Weekly 2 hours 20 Yes
Workshops 10 Weekly 2 hours 20 Yes
Independent Study 160
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: In-Year Test Component Weighting: 60%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
In-Year Test 2 hours 100% Test (2 hours)
Component: Portfolio Component Weighting: 40%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Assignment 250 words or equivalent 33% Assignment
Assignment 250 words or equivalent 33% Assignment
Assignment 250 words or equivalent 34% Assignment

Formative Assessment:

Throughout the module, you will also complete a range of formative tasks and exercises. Examples of formative tasks in this module include mathematical problem worksheets and timed maths problem responses. These are not formally graded, but they are designed to help you develop your skills and build towards each summative assignment. Engaging actively with formative tasks will support your progress and help you perform well in the assessed work.   Examples of formative tasks in this module include mathematical problem worksheets and timed maths problem responses.


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.