Introduction to Mathematical Sciences (5cr)

Evaluation scale

H-5

Content scheduling

PART 1:
1 Basic arithmetic operations
2 Fractions
3 Powers
4 Roots
5 Polynomials, simplifying rational expressions
6 Polynomial equations of 1. and 2. degree
7 Simultaneous linear equations

PART 2:
8 Variable and function, graphs of functions
9 Lines and parabolas
10 Basics of geometry
11 Basics of trigonometry
12 Percentages
13 Quantity and unit
14 Basics of physics

Objective

Student obtains the skills and knowledge required for basic courses of mathematical sciences within polytechnical studies.

Content

• Real numbers
• Basic arithmetic operations and the order of operations
• Fractions
• Powers, roots and rational exponents
• Polynomials and polynomial equations of 1. and 2. degree
• Simplifying rational expressions
• Percentages
• Simultaneous linear equations
• Lines and parabolas
• Concepts of variable and function
• Graphs of functions and interpretation of graphs
• Basics of geometry and trigonometry
• International system of units, unit conversions
• Calculations involving quantities and units
• Field-specific content

Materials

Course material shared by the teacher through Itslearning.
Function calculator (Casio fx-82CX or similar).

Teaching methods

Lectures, self-study, homework, homework sessions, exams

Exam schedules

Exam Part 1 – Week 11
Exam Part 2 – Week 18
The exact times and retake exams are in the schedule

Pedagogic approaches and sustainable development

Lectures cover theoretical concepts and examples, while homework sessions focus on students working independently on assignments—with the teacher available to provide support when needed

Completion alternatives

-

Student workload

5 ECTS credits = 135 hours of student work, consisting of:
- Lectures: 14 × 2h
- Homework sessions: 14 × 2h
- Exams: 4h
- Self-study (homework, exercises, exam preparation, etc.): ~75h

Evaluation methods and criteria

To pass the course, you must
- submit at least 40 % of the exercises
- score at least 40 % on both midterm exams

Using AI tools to support learning is permitted.
Use of AI during exams is not allowed.

Failed (0)

The student has not demonstrated achievement of the course objectives.

A failing grade will be given if:
- less than 40% of the exercises have been submitted
- the student scores less than 40% on one or both midterm exams

The course will also be failed if any form of academic misconduct is detected.

Assessment criteria, satisfactory (1-2)

The student has demonstrated that they have satisfactorily achieved the objectives of the course. The student recognizes and can somewhat utilize the concepts related to the course's subject matter.

Assessment criteria, good (3-4)

The student has demonstrated that they have achieved the objectives of the course well, although there is still room for improvement in certain areas of knowledge and skills. The student can effectively use the concepts related to the course's subject matter and apply what they have learned in both academic and professional situations.

Assessment criteria, excellent (5)

The student has demonstrated that they have excellently achieved the objectives of the course. The student has a strong command of the concepts related to the course's subject matter and can analyze related issues fluently and with well-founded reasoning. The student is well-equipped to apply what they have learned in both academic and professional situations.

Further information

Itslearning and email