Further Mathematics A (G5131)

15 credits, Level 3 (sub-degree)

Autumn teaching

The module covers:

Set Theory and Propositional Logic - we will relate Venn diagrams to Boolean algebra and use both to solve problems drawn from everyday life. We will look at statements that are verifiably true or false, and combine them in compound expressions which we can then examine logically by means of truth tables.

Functions - what they are, and what they are not, sketching them and finding their roots by a variety of methods, including iterative schemes which home in on a solution.

Matrices - a powerful way of encoding vast arrays of data, with many applications in science and commerce.

Conic sections - the simple action of slicing a cone with a plane at varying angles creates a circle, an ellipse, a parabola or a hyperbola where the surfaces intersect. We examine these shapes in their standard mathematical forms, and find how they relate directly to the trajectories of objects approaching planets at different speeds.

You may have encountered some topics in your A-level studies, and now have an opportunity to revisit and consolidate your knowledge in this module.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 43 hours of contact time and about 107 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2023/24. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.