James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2002

MA1020:03

Preparatory Mathematics

Townsville

HECS Band 2

39 hours lectures, 13 practice classes, 13 hours practicals. Semester 1 and 2.

Available to students in any Faculty without a Senior Mathematics or equivalent background. This subject prepares students for MA1000 or for other University courses that require Senior Mathematics B as a prerequisite.

Staff: Dr S Belward, Mr D Mullamphy.

Basic algebraic skills with applications. Functions, including linear and quadratic with graph sketching; commonly used functions and inverses (e.g. log and exponential). Linear algebra: simultaneous equations, introduction to matrices. Introduction to calculus with applications: graphical interpretation and simple rules.

Learning Objectives:

  1. to develop sufficient basic mathematical skills for application to quantitatively-based University level subjects.

Assessment by coursework (tests and assignments) (50%); a three-hour examination (50%).