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Mathematics A1

Unit code: QCF156
Contact hours: 4 per week
Credit points: 12
Information about fees and unit costs

This unit focuses on basic rules of arithmetic; ratio, percentages and proportion; introduction to statistics; averages and interpretation of graphs; dispersion and graphical display; probability; arrangements and combinations; basic measurement, area and volume; spending money; borrowing money and investment.


Availability
Semester Available
2013 13TP1 Yes
2013 13TP2 Yes
2013 13TP3 Yes

Sample subject outline - 13 Week Teaching Period - 1 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

To be an effective professional in a wide range of areas such as engineering, science, information technology, health and business, an appropriate level of mathematical competence is essential. In our own personal lives, a basic knowledge of topics such as statistics, probability, measurement and financial mathematics is also beneficial.

Aims

This unit aims to give students a basic knowledge and the fundamental skills of arithmetic, statistics, probability, measurement and financial mathematics. This unit also aims to develop students ability to apply these concepts in solving problems.

Objectives

On completion of this unit, students should be able to:

  1. Demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of elementary mathematical concepts, arithmetic, statistics, probability, measurement and financial maths. (FGC 2)

  2. Demonstrate a level of competence in the application of learned knowledge and procedures within the topics of elementary mathematical concepts, arithmetic statistics, probability, measurement and financial mathematics. (FGC 2, 3)

  3. Demonstrate some ability modelling and problem solving by applying their knowledge and procedures to unfamiliar situations. (FGC 4)

  4. Communicate clearly and appropriately within a mathematical context through the correct use of symbols, notation and terminology. (FGC 1)


Key: Foundation Graduate Capabilities
FGC 1: Effective communication in a variety of contexts and modes
FGC 2: Knowledge pertinent to a range of subject areas
FGC 3: Skills appropriate to a range of subject areas at the level of entry to the degree
FGC 4: Critical, creative and analytical thinking and effective problem solving for academic and real world contexts
FGC 5: The ability to work independently and collaboratively
FGC 6: Social and ethical responsibility

Completion of this unit will also contribute to the ongoing development of generic capabilities, such as general problem solving skills and effective oral communication.

Content

Weekly Topics

Week 1

  • Arithmetic

    Week 2-3
  • Percentages

    Week 4
  • Ratios and Proportion

    Week 5-6
  • Graphing

    Week 7
    Mid-Semester Exam

    Week 8
  • Mensuration (Area, Volume)

    Week 9
  • Introduction to statistics

    Week 10
  • Measures of Central Tendency
  • Measures of Variation

    Week 11-12
  • Elementary Probability

    Week 13
  • Revision and Exam Preparation

    Week 14
    Final Examination

    Approaches to Teaching and Learning

    There are four hours of class contact per week. Students are expected to attend all classes. In class, course content will be introduced and associated skills will be demonstrated in a variety of learning scenarios. Students will be given opportunities to try problems and gain individual assistance. Students are expected to study the textbook and handouts, and complete all set exercises at home.

    Late Assignment Policy:
    Students will be penalised for the submission of late assignments.
    Refer to the Foundation Course Guide for details.

    Review of Grades or Academic Rulings:
    For rules on how to apply for a review of grade, refer to the Foundation Course Guide.

    Consultation:
    The teacher will be available for consultation from Week 2. Times will be advised in class and will also be displayed in a schedule at Reception.

    Exam Timetable
    The exam timetable will be displayed on the Noticeboard on Level 3 by Week 11.

    Assessment

    The following unit criteria are assessed:
    1. Knowledge and Procedures
    2. Modelling and Problem Solving

    Types of Assessment
    In this unit, students will be assessed through formative and summative assessment.

    Formative Assessment
    Formative assessment items are used to provide feedback to students to assist with their progress and do not count towards final marks.

    Summative Assessment
    Summative assessment items count towards the final grade for this subject.

    This unit may require students to submit their assessment items through SafeAssign.
    Please refer to the Week 1 document for this unit.

    Assessment name: Class Quizzes
    Description: Formative.
    Relates to objectives: 1, 2.
    Internal or external: Internal
    Group or individual: Individual
    Due date: Wks 3 to 7 & 9 to 13

    Assessment name: Mid-Semester Examination
    Description: Summative.
    Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3, 4.
    Weight: 20%
    Internal or external: Internal
    Group or individual: Individual
    Due date: Week 7

    Assessment name: Assignment
    Description: Summative.
    Relates to objectives: 3, 4.
    Weight: 40%
    Internal or external: Internal
    Group or individual: Individual
    Due date: Week 11

    Assessment name: Final Exam
    Description: Summative.
    Relates to objectives: 1, 2, 3, 4.
    Weight: 40%
    Internal or external: Internal
    Group or individual: Individual
    Due date: Exam Period

    Academic Honesty

    QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

    A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

    Resource materials

    Texts

    1. Croucher, J.S. Introductory Mathematics & Statistics. 6th ed. Sydney: McGraw Hill.


    References
    Please refer to the Blackboard site for further information.

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    Risk assessment statement

    There are no out-of-the-ordinary risks associated with this unit.

    Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

    Last modified: 14-Mar-2013