Engineering Precalculus (5 cr)

Evaluation scale

H-5

Content scheduling

- Sets of numbers and number systems
- Real functions
- Polynomials equations and inequalities, exponential and logarithmic equations;
- Trigonometry for right triangles
- Complex numbers
- Vectors and matrices

Objective

After completing the course, the student
• can handle mathematical expressions and formulas within the engineering framework.
• understands the principles of solving equations and can solve equations encountered within technical applications.
• understands the basics of vector algebra and can apply vectors for modelling and solving technical problems.
• understands the basics concepts of geometry and trigonometry, and can apply them in modelling and problem solving.
• understands the concept of function and knows basic properties of functions.
• can apply functions for modelling and solving technical problems.
• understands the basic concepts of matrix algebra.
• can apply simultaneous equations for modelling and solving technical problems.
• can apply correct mathematical notations within the engineering framework.

Content

• Real numbers
• Basic arithmetic operations and the order of operations
• Algebraic expressions
• First and second order of polynomial equations and inequalities
• Simultaneous linear equations
• Radical functions and equations
• Exponential and logarithmic functions and equations
• Angles and angular units
• Right triangle and trigonometry
• Trigonometric functions and the unit circle
• Trigonometric equations
• The sine and cosine rules
• Basic concepts of vector algebra and modelling with vectors
• Scalar product and cross product of two vectors
• Basics of matrix algebra, determinant, inverse of a square matrix
• Field-specific content

Materials

1. Precalculus (3rd edition), Fred Safier, SCHAUM’S outlines.
2. Engineering Mathematics (6th edition), K.A. Stroud [MACMILLAN PRESS LTD]
3. Formula book: Technical formulas

Teaching methods

Teacher-directed classroom activities, group work and independent work; project work, reports, task-based (homework)

International connections

The contents of the course give understanding of the basic mathematics and help students to solve equations, including radical, exponential and logarithmic equations and use determinants and matrices (e.g. for solving linear simultaneous equations), apply dot and cross products (e.g. in games, physics and electrical engineering applications), moreover the students can use relevant mathematical denotation correctly
The students will team up for a project work and writing reports on some current and relevant aspect of basic math, which gives everyone an opportunity to understand the topic; all students will develop their mathematical proficiency.
Task-based assessment supports learning and is continuous throughout the course. Studying in an international group develops students’ ability to intercultural communication and multicultural collaboration

Student workload

Classroom activities: Classroom activities participation 50 h
Homework: Working on homework sets 1-6 30 h
Project work: Research, presentation material, presentation 20h
Final exam: Preparing for the final exam 25 h

Qualifications

Introduction to mathematical sciences or corresponding skills.

Further information

All practical information on timetables, project work, grading etc., as well as links to web materials are provided in ITS Learning.