The University of SydneyPage 1 Maths Bridging Courses What? Why? When? What then? Presented by Jackie Nicholas Mathematics Learning Centre

The University of SydneyPage 2 What? Two maths bridging courses Extension 1 Course For students who have studied HSC Mathematics but whose courses have an assumed knowledge of Mathematics Extension 1 such as Engineering and some Science 2 Unit Course For students whose courses have an assumed knowledge of HSC Mathematics such as Commerce and Economics Year 10 mathematics is required as a minimum

The University of SydneyPage 3 Why? What is assumed knowledge in maths? The level of knowledge the lecturer may assume students have on Day One Purpose of bridging courses: to introduce the ideas we need most for our units of study in first year Research shows that students find the courses very valuable and not only for learning maths

The University of SydneyPage 4 BUT A maths bridging course cannot replace the mathematical knowledge and experience gained in Years 11 and 12 of secondary school, So be realistic In 2019, the University of Sydney will be introducing entry requirements (prerequisites) in maths for about 60 degrees

The University of SydneyPage 5 When? In 2017 Monday 13 February to Tuesday 28 February am to 12pm on weekdays OR Monday 13 February to Thursday 2 March pm to 8pm Monday to Thursday only Fee: $435 Classes: Twelve classes, two hours each class 16 to 20 students per class

The University of SydneyPage 6 What then? Ongoing support at the Mathematics Learning Centre in 2017 For eligible students of the University of Sydney More information: and then follow the bridging course links

The University of SydneyPage 7 2 Unit maths bridging course outline Day 1 Variables and relationships between them. Introduction to functions and function notation. Evaluating simple functions at various points. Graphing simple functions. Day 2 Linear functions. Rates of change. Gradient of a straight line. Day 3 Factorisation. Solving quadratic equations. Day 4 The derivative of x 2 from first principles. Geometrical interpretation of the derivative. Maximum and minimum values of quadratics. Day 5 Derivative of a general polynomial. Applications – optimisation and sketching curves. Day 6 Second derivatives. Curvature and points of inflexion. Velocity and acceleration. Day 7 Index laws. Derivative of x n for n negative or fractional. Day 8 The exponential function. Derivative of e x. Exponential growth. Composite functions. Day 9 Derivative of a composite function. Product and quotient rules for differentiation. Day 10 The circular functions – their graphs and derivatives. Some trigonometric identities. Day 11 Inverse functions. The logarithm function – graph and derivative. Logarithm rules. Day 12 Absolute value. A session for applications, problem solving and revision.

The University of SydneyPage 8 Extension 1 maths bridging course outline 1 Functions I 2 Functions II 3 Trigonometric identities 4 Mathematical induction 5 Polynomials and rational functions 6 Solving equations 7 Integration techniques 8 Inverse functions 9 Applications of calculus 10 Counting and permutations 11 Combinations and the Binomial Theorem

The University of SydneyPage 9 Maths bridging courses Questions?