Units
Mathematics B1
Unit code: QCF157
Contact hours: 4 per week
Credit points: 12
Information about fees and unit costs
This unit focuses on basic algebra; equations (including simultaneous equations); functions (including polynomials, exponential, logarithmic) and their graphs; growth and decay; introduction to trigonometry; factorisation; analytical geometry; averages; interpretation of graphs and probability.
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, accounting, economics 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 maths is also beneficial.
Aims
This unit aims to give students a basic knowledge and the fundamental skills of algebra, statistics, probability, functions and trigonometry. This unit also aims to develop students' ability to be able to apply these concepts in solving problems. This unit provides students with a foundation for further study in calculus, trigonometry and statistics.
Objectives
On completion of this unit students should be able to:
- Demonstrate a sound knowledge and understanding of algebra, functions, statistics, trigonometry and probability. (FGC2, FGC3)
- Demonstrate a level of competence in the application of learned skills and procedures within the topics of algebra, functions, statistics, trigonometry and probability. (FGC2, FGC3)
- Demonstrate some ability in problem solving and modelling by applying students knowledge and skills to unfamiliar situations. (FGC4)
- Communicate clearly and appropriately within a mathematical context through the correct use of symbols, notation and terminology. (FGC1)
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
Content
Weekly Topics
Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4/5
(Class Test 1 - Formative Assessment covering Weeks 1 - 3)
Week 5/6
Week 6/7
Week 7/8
Week 8/9
(Class Test 2 - Summative Assessment covering Weeks 1 - 7)
Week 9/10
Week 10/11
Week 11/12
Week 13
(Summative Assessment - Assignment - calculations and problem solving questions covering Weeks 1-12)
Week 14
(Summative Assessment - Final Exam - calculations and problem solving questions covering Weeks 1-12)
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 using a variety of methods. Students will be given opportunities to try problems and gain individual assistance and 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 the 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 4 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 Test 1
Description:
Formative
Relates to objectives:
1,2,3 and 4
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Week 4
Assessment name:
Class Test 2
Description:
Summative
Relates to objectives:
1,2,3 and 4
Weight:
20%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Week 8
Assessment name:
Homework Assignment
Description:
Summative
Relates to objectives:
3 and 4
Weight:
40%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Week 12
Assessment name:
Final Exam
Description:
Summative
Relates to objectives:
1,2,3 and 4
Weight:
40%
Internal or external:
Internal
Group or individual:
Individual
Due date:
Week 14
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
- Washington, A.J. Basic Technical Mathematics with Calculus SI Version 9th ed. Pearson Education Canada.
- Mathematics B1 Activity Booklet. Brisbane: QUT Publications.
References
Please refer to the Blackboard site for further information.
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
