Unit information: Mathematics for Mathematicians in 2020/21

Unit name	Mathematics for Mathematicians
Unit code	LANG00043
Credit points	20
Level of study	QCA-3
Teaching block(s)	Teaching Block 2 (weeks 13 - 24)
Unit director	Dr. Andersen
Open unit status	Not open
Pre-requisites	IELTS minimum 5.5 overall with a minimum of 5 in writing and 4.5 in all other components or equivalent Students should have the appropriate qualifications in Mathematics at the equivalent of QCA level 2
Co-requisites	None
School/department	Centre for Academic Language and Development
Faculty	Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

The unit is designed to develop students’ mathematical understanding to an extended level equivalent to QCA level 3.

The unit will include proofs, algebra, functions, matrices, complex numbers, roots of equations, sequences and series (including Taylor series), vectors, calculus, hyperbolic functions and differential equations.

The aims of the unit are to prepare students on the international foundation programme for progression into higher level qualifications in mathematics that require a more advanced understanding of mathematics.

Intended Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, a student will be able to:

1. Demonstrate understanding of the major concepts of mathematics. Use advanced techniques in single-variable calculus
2. Demonstrate ability to solve mathematical problems using the obtained range of mathematical skills and techniques. Use and apply complex numbers.
3. Interpret solutions and draw conclusions by using mathematical reasoning in the context of the problem. Solve simple differential equations.
4. Demonstrate ability to use their knowledge in a variety of contexts. Use and apply Taylor series to simple functions.

Teaching Information

Students will attend 5 hours of study per week. Learning is facilitated in sessions involving a combination of teacher-led input, combined with practical, workshop-style exercises. On-line delivery of materials through Blackboard VLE.

Assessment Information

Formative Assessment:

• Regular problem sheets, with feedback provided during weekly seminars

Summative Assessment:

• Written examination (30%) ILOs 2
• Written examination (70%) ILOs 1, 3, 4

Reading and References

Many textbooks cover the material taught in this unit, for example:

Higher Engineering Mathematics, John Bird (Routledge 2017)

Further Reading

Understanding Pure Mathematics, A.J. Sadler and D.W.S. Thorning (Oxford University Press 1995)

Maths: A Student's Survival Guide: A Self-help Workbook for Science and Engineering Students, Jenny Olive (Cambridge University Press 2003)

You may also find the following books helpful:

Help yourself to algebra, Hugh Neill (Longman 1996)

New Head Start to A-Level Maths (CGP A-Level Maths 2017-2018)