MA1CA-Calculus

Module Provider: Mathematics and Statistics
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites: A level Mathematics Grade B or higher
Co-requisites: MA1LA Linear Algebra
Modules excluded: FB1EM1 Mathematics and Computing for Life Sciences FB1EMA Mathematics for Life Sciences A CH1M2 Mathematics M2 EC108 Mathematics for Economics: Introductory Techniques for BA EC109 Mathematics for Economics: Introductory Techniques for BSc CS1MA16 Mathematics for Computer Science
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Peter Chamberlain
Email: p.g.chamberlain@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module covers core topics in calculus.

Aims:

To build on and develop students' understanding of pre-university mathematics, especially the calculus and to extend this into two or more dimensions. Techniques of solution of ordinary differential equations of the first and second order, and simple applications will also be presented. Emphasis will be placed on appreciation of the real world applications of such mathematics.

Assessable learning outcomes:

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

• demonstrate problem-solving skills;


• differentiate and integrate functions of single and multiple variables;


• find and classify extrema of a function of single and multiple variables;


• derive the Taylor polynomial of a function of single and multiple variables;


• solve elementary first and second order differential equations, plus systems of first order differential equations;


• model simple applications.

Additional outcomes:

Students will acquire some appreciation of real world applications of their mathematics.

Outline content:

This module reinforces and extends the calculus topics encountered in school courses. Its objectives are to introduce some of the basic "tools of the trade" and to develop the skills required to solve a range of problems using these tools. Methods are developed intuitively rather than by means of rigorous proofs. Applications of the various techniques will be given.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Lectures, supported by problem sheets and tutorials.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	20	20	4
Tutorials	9	9
Guided independent study:	69	69
Total hours by term	98	98	4
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	70
Set exercise	30

Summative assessment- Examinations:

3 hours.

The examination for this module will require a narrowly defined time window and is likely to be held in a dedicated exam venue.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

One examination and a number of assignments.

Formative assessment methods:

Problem 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:

One examination paper of 3 hours duration in August/September - the resit module mark will be the higher of the exam mark (100% exam) and the exam mark plus coursework marks (70% exam, 30% coursework).

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: 

2) Specialist equipment or materials: 

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 

4) Printing and binding: 

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: 

Last updated: 30 March 2023