MA0FMP-Further Mathematics and Physics

Module Provider: Mathematics and Statistics
Number of credits: 40 [20 ECTS credits]
Level:F
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: EC0MEB Mathematics for Finance, Economics and Business
Modules excluded: MA0FMC Further Mathematics and Computer Science EC0MFE Mathematics for Economics PH0PHY Foundation Physics A
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Prof Paul Glaister
Email: p.glaister@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

To achieve a solid grounding in some of the aspects of vectors and matrices, mechanics and differential equations at the standard of A-level. The module also covers a range of physics topics including those most relevant to degrees in the Departments of Meteorology and Computational Science.

Aims:

To achieve a solid grounding in some of the aspects of vectors and matrices, mechanics and differential equations at the standard of A-level. To provide a basic understanding in physics and its associated skills together with the skills of independent learning.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module students are expected to be able to:

• carry out simple manipulation of and operation of vectors and matrices and apply them;


• solve simple first-order differential equations;


• evaluate determinants and solve systems of linear equations;


• solve simple problems in particle mechanics;


• have knowledge and understanding  of major areas of physics including the structure and phases of matter, thermodynamics,  electric charge, fields and potential, mechanics, forces, work, energy and simple harmonic motion;


• apply both physics and mathematics knowledge to solve a range of physics problems;


• conduct basic laboratory experiments, record and present data whilst taking account of errors;


• write coherent laboratory reports.

Additional outcomes:

Ability to learn independently through reading, plan a study programme to meet deadlines, work flexibly and use a variety of learning resources. Practical experience gained of designing and setting up laboratory experiments, taking measurements, error analysis and report writing. By the end of the module students are expected to have enhanced their problem-solving skills and have demonstrated and applied their knowledge of appropriate key transferable academic skills.

Outline content:

The module introduces the pure mathematics concepts of vectors and matrices, their properties and uses, and some applied mathematics in the form of elementary particle mechanics and first order differential equations.

The module also focuses on the physics of materials with a consideration of atomic structure and the properties of gases. Electric charge, fields, forces and potential are also studied leading to an understanding of electric current, resistance and DC electric circuits. Work, energy and simple harmonic motion are also covered.

 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module consists of lectures, tutorials and laboratory work, with emphasis on independent study.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	36	38	20
Tutorials	23	25	15
Practicals classes and workshops	9	6
Guided independent study:	92	91	45
Total hours by term	160	160	80
Total hours for module	400

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	55
Report	12.5
Class test administered by School	32.5

Summative assessment- Examinations:

2 hours [Further Mathematics] (35%)

1.5 hours [Physics] (20%)

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

2 in-class tests [Further Mathematics] (15%)

4 in-class tests [Physics] (17.5%)

1 laboratory report [Physics] (12.5%)

Formative assessment methods:

Weekly question sheets.

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:

A mark of 40% overall.

Reassessment arrangements:

By examination in August/September with continuous assessment carried forward if it is to the advantage of the student.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Last updated: 30 March 2023