Module BIC-0003:
Maths 2 (Mechanics)

Module Facts

Run by Bangor University International College

10.000 Credits or 5.000 ECTS Credits

Semester 1 & 2

Organiser: Mrs Laura McKenzie

Overall aims and purpose

1) To introduce students from a range of backgrounds to the mathematical knowledge and aptitude that they will be expected to deploy and demonstrate in their study at undergraduate level 2) To ensure that students understand and can use appropriate mathematical language and understand mathematical notation, conventions and units 3) To introduce the relationships between forces, linear motion and energy and the conditions for the static equilibrium of a body 4) To prepare students for the deployment of mathematical applications in the fields of engineering and computer science

Course content

This module provides the appropriate foundation in mathematical skills to enable students to be successful as they proceed to their planned undergraduate studies in engineering or computer science. Many students will come from educational systems where there has been a strong emphasis placed on mathematics but it cannot be assumed that this will apply more generally. It is important therefore that the module ensures the strong level of mathematics required to cope with level 4 and beyond of their engineering or computer science first degree programme. The main topics covered are: Vectors: Introduction; Cartesian components and position vectors Forces and Equilibrium: Mathematical models; the action of forces; resultant forces; resolution into components; a particle in equilibrium Relative Motion: Velocity and acceleration as vectors; Relative velocity; relative displacement Newton’s Laws of Motion: Newton’s Laws; Applications; Connected particles; Related accelerations Friction – Hooke’s Law; The Law of friction; Motion on a rough surface; Equilibrium on a rough surface; Angle of friction; Hooke’s Law Work, Energy and Power: Work and kinetic energy; Conservation of mechanical energy; Work done by a variable force; Power

Assessment Criteria

good

Student has demonstrated sound, basic knowledge and technique in tackling many of the topics covered in the module and so shown clear suitability for undergraduate degree studies.

threshold

Student has coped sufficiently well with some aspects of the module to achieve the minimum level of pass to allow progression onto an undergraduate degree programme.

excellent

Student has performed effectively in all aspects of the module and has demonstrated a high level of suitability for and can proceed with confidence to undergraduate degree studies.

Learning outcomes

  1. Show that they recognise that mathematical models can be used to investigate physical events

  2. Evaluate simple problems of relative motion

  3. Make calculations in consistent units

  4. Apply Newton’s Laws of Motion

  5. Apply the relationships between distance and time for linear motion

  6. Distinguish between scalar and vector quantities giving physical examples

  7. Apply principles of static equilibrium including limiting equilibrium

Assessment Methods

Type Name Description Weight
CLASS TEST class test 1

Question paper assessing a variety of mathematical style questions.

 30.00
EXAM final exam

Unseen Exam

 70.00

Teaching and Learning Strategy

Hours
Practical classes and workshops

The tutors in the college aim to provide a programme of study that covers relevant content material at NQF level 3. The college uses a wide variety of methods in its teaching delivery. Students will be given an opportunity to develop skills through class based lessons and tutorials, as well as other interactive methods including use of technology and student directed learning. There is an explicit attempt to raise student awareness of the need to use independent study time. We focus on the concept of independent learning from the induction stage and this is reinforced in all classes. The lessons are supported through the English language module providing an opportunity for students to build confidence and competence in using the sessions to achieve the learning outcomes of the course.

 50
Private study

Students will have access to online resources and additional tasks set as homework or group work. Tutors will be available through blackboard and in the college to support. Students will also be encouraged to form peer to peer study groups

 50

Transferable skills

  • Literacy - Proficiency in reading and writing through a variety of media
  • Numeracy - Proficiency in using numbers at appropriate levels of accuracy
  • Computer Literacy - Proficiency in using a varied range of computer software
  • Critical analysis & Problem Solving - Able to deconstruct and analyse problems or complex situations. To find solutions to problems through analyses and exploration of all possibilities using appropriate methods, rescources and creativity.
  • Self-awareness & Reflectivity - Having an awareness of your own strengths, weaknesses, aims and objectives. Able to regularly review, evaluate and reflect upon the performance of yourself and others

Subject specific skills

  • Demonstrate numeracy skills required as a basis for further studies in Economics, Financial Accounting and Management
  • Develop an awareness of the relevance of physics and mathematics to the field of engineering
  • Demonstrate numeracy skills required as a basis for future studies in Computing and Engineering programmes
  • Demonstrate an understanding and ability to apply concepts, principles and theories underpinning physics, mathematics and computing to relevant situations

Resources

Resource implications for students

Core Text Book

Reading list

Hooker, S et al (2008) Edexcel AS and A Module Mathematics: Mechanics 1 Pearson Education

Courses including this module