Overview

This module provides the appropriate foundation in mathematical skills to further 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:

Forces and Equilibrium: Mathematical models; the action of forces; resultant forces; resolution into components; a particle in equilibrium

Newton’s Laws of Motion: Newton’s Laws; Applications; Connected particles; Related accelerations

Friction: The Law of friction; Motion on a rough surface; Equilibrium on a rough surface; Angle of friction

Vectors: Finding the position vector; Magnitude of a vector; Using SUVAT equations to find unknowns

Statistics - Calculating basic statistics including averages, spread and probability; Probability distributions including normal distribution, calculating correlation (Pearson's) and regression of given two variable data.

Assessment Strategy

Threshold (40-49% / D- to D+): Student has made sufficient progress in the study of this module to achieve the lowest level of pass allowing for progression onto an undergraduate degree.

Satisfactory (50 – 59% / C- to C+): Student demonstrates reasonably comprehensive coverage of learning outcomes, indicating generally accurate understanding, based on lecture material and some core readings. Some gaps in knowledge and/or understanding evident.

Good (60-69% / B- to B+): Student has displayed a sound basic knowledge and understanding of much of the material studied in this module and achieved a high enough grade to indicate a clear ability to cope with the demands of an undergraduate level degree.

Excellent (70% + / A- to A*): Student has engaged consistently well with all aspects of the module and strong achievement in assessments indicates the ability to perform effectively at undergraduate degree level.

Learning Outcomes

• Apply Newton's laws of motion to solve both dynamic and static problems in consistent units

• Apply basic statistics to analyse and interpret data

• Apply principles of static equilibrium including limiting equilibrium and evaluate simple problems of relative motion

• Apply the relationships between distance and time for linear motion using both vector and scalar quantities.