| Unit name | Introductory Foundation Mathematics |
|---|---|
| Unit code | MATH10008 |
| Credit points | 20 |
| Level of study | C/4 |
| Teaching block(s) |
Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12) |
| Unit director | Dr. Chenchiah |
| Open unit status | Open |
| Pre-requisites |
GCSE Mathematics grade C or equivalent |
| Co-requisites |
None |
| School/department | School of Mathematics |
| Faculty | Faculty of Science |
This unit provides a first course in calculus suitable for students with GCSE mathematics who have
not taken mathematics A level or equivalent. It is designed to be suitable for first year science
students, but is available to other students with an appropriate background.
Aims: To revise elementary mathematics in GCSE (bearing in mind the needs of students who
have not studied mathematics for 2 years or more). To introduce basic algebra, trigonometry and
calculus as useful tools for science students.
Relation to Other Units: The unit Mathematics 1FM (to be renamed “Further Foundation
Mathematics”) follows on from this unit, and covers vectors, matrices and further calculus.
At the end of the unit students should be able to:
• perform basic algebraic manipulations
• sum arithmetic and geometric series
• solve linear, simultaneous linear, and quadratic equations
• use trigonometry
• differentiate and integrate simple functions and know the physical meaning of the derivative
and integral.
Lectures, small group classes, problem sheets.
2.5 hour written exam (100%)
Many textbooks cover the material taught in this unit, for example:
• Understanding Pure Mathematics, A.J. Sadler and D.W.S. Thorning (Oxford University Press
1995)
Also helpful are:
• Help yourself to algebra, Hugh Neill (Longman 1996)
• Mind the Gap, bridging the gap between GCSE and AS Maths, Roger Cahalin, Alessandra
Desbottes & Suzanne Doyle (Coordination Group Publications 2002)
