Foundation Course Mathematics 1 Foundation programs are designed for those students who need to develop their skills at a bachelor degree level. The courses (or modules) in such programs are designed to meet students' practical communicative needs in an academic environment. In addition to English, some other courses are included into foundation programs. One of the most needed courses is Mathematics. In this course students are introduced to basic mathematic concepts. They learn how to formulate and solve equations, understand and explain geometric concepts, describe numbers and sets. The duration of the course is two semesters. Accordingly, the course is divided into two parts - Semester One - Mathematics 1 (F1-M1), and Semester Two - Mathematics 2 (F2-M2). FOUNDATION 1 (Semester 1) Mathematics 1 Module Code: F1-M1 Credit Points: 5 Prerequisites: High School Certificate and Placement Test 30 points or higher. Aims The module aims to enable students to (1) understand basic mathematics terminology;
(2) describe numbers and sets;
(3) formulate and solve equations;
(4) understand and explain geometric concepts.
Content
Unit 1. Numbers
Arithmetic properties of integer, rational, irrational, and real numbers – exponent laws – manipulation of fractions, ratios, decimals and percentages – rational expressions.
Unit 2. Equations
Linear equations – equations involving radicals and fractional expressions-inequalities-graphs-quadratic formula.
Unit 3. Geometric Concepts
Coordinate plane – equation of a straight line – equation of a circle - basic concepts of parallel, perpendicular and tangent lines.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module the student will be able to
(1) identify and use arithmetic properties of sets of numbers;
(2) solve equations and inequalities;
(3) explain geometric concepts.
Assessment
The module is evaluated for a total of 100 marks on in-semester coursework.
Teaching Tools and Learning Resources
Introductory Algebra, by Lial, Hornsby, and McGinnis.
Lecture and tutorial notes; online resources.
Regulations and Requirements of the Course
Each student must fulfill the following requirements of the course:
(1) Take part in computer based activities on various topics by responding to a variety of questions and report to his/her tutor. Class participation is assessed.
(2) Use the learning tools and the Internet materials which are recommended by your tutor.
(3) Self-study (approximately 4 hours per week) includes searching for information, selecting relevant information and preparing PowerPoint presentations. Self-study also includes completion of all assignments given by tutors.
(4) Attend all classes regularly. If a student misses more than two classes without a valid reason she/he will not be allowed to continue the course without a special permission from the tutor.
(5) Attend all examinations and/or tests. Cheating at examinations is not tolerated and students who are caught cheating will be automatically considered as having failed themselves.
(6) Students are not allowed to walk around or chat loudly with each other during a lesson without a teacher’s permission. If a student ignores the teacher’s remarks, uses offensive words or offensive body language, insults other students and the teacher, behaves in an arrogant manner or in any other inappropriate manner, is late for classes, leaves the classroom early without the teacher’s permission, the student will be sanctioned or disciplined in accordance with college regulations, including expulsion from the College. Expulsion implies that the student should not consider the College for further education.
(7) Students are expected to comply with the college-wide requirements for academic integrity. The College is committed to academic integrity—the honest, fair, and continuing pursuit of knowledge, free from fraud or deception. This implies that students are expected to be responsible for their own work. Presenting another individual’s work as one’s own and receiving excessive help from another individual will qualify as a violation of academic integrity. Plagiarism is cheating. In this course, using another person’s words or ideas as your own without giving credit, producing a memorized piece (either your own or someone else’s), or having someone do any portion of your work is cheating. You are expected to complete your own, original work by using your own words.
(8) The Course Outline is the main document of the course and all the topics should be studied in class and at home every week. The duty of each student is to conduct Internet research, study the handouts, complete and submit all assignments on time and prepare for examinations and tests. The Course Outline is handed in to each student during the first week of the semester.
(9) Any additional questions or suggestions related to the above can be answered or discussed personally by your tutor either during office hours or by email. Each student who approaches their tutor by email must write their student ID number, name and the class number on the subject. Anonymous emails will not be replied.
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