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Module

MAS1602 : Introductory Algebra: Complex Numbers, Vectors and Matrices (Inactive)

  • Inactive for Year: 2024/25
  • Module Leader(s): Dr Stefan Kolb
  • Owning School: Mathematics, Statistics and Physics
  • Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters

Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.

Semester 1 Credit Value: 15
ECTS Credits: 8.0
European Credit Transfer System

Aims

The module aims to provide students of differing mathematical backgrounds with a common algebraic foundation for more advanced mathematical study. The first part of the module is devoted to complex numbers and polynomial equations in one variable. The second part treats elementary concepts of linear algebra, in particular systems of linear equations and matrix methods for their solution and applications to geometry.

Outline Of Syllabus

Complex numbers, arithmetic, Argand diagram, polar form, de Moivre's theorem, powers and roots of unity.

Vectors: sums, products (scalar, dot, cross), equations of lines and planes, orthogonality, norm.

Linear algebra: row operations, solution of linear equations, Gaussian elimination, matrix operations, determinants, inverting matrices, eigenvectors, quadratic forms.

Teaching Methods

Teaching Activities
Category Activity Number Length Student Hours Comment
Guided Independent StudyAssessment preparation and completion201:0020:00Completion of In Course Assessment
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesLecture91:009:00Synchronous On Line Material
Structured Guided LearningLecture materials231:0023:00Non Synchronous Activities
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesWorkshops91:009:00Present in Person
Structured Guided LearningStructured non-synchronous discussion151:0015:00Non Synchronous Discussion to Support Learning
Scheduled Learning And Teaching ActivitiesDrop-in/surgery41:004:00Office Hour or Discussion Board Activity
Guided Independent StudyIndependent study701:0070:00Preparation Time for Lectures, Background Reading, Coursework Review
Total150:00
Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Non-synchronous online materials are used for the delivery of theory and explanation of methods, illustrated with examples, and for giving general feedback on assessed work. Present-in-person and synchronous online sessions are used to help develop the students’ abilities at applying the theory to solving problems and to identify and resolve specific queries raised by students, and to allow students to receive individual feedback on marked work. In addition, office hours/discussion board activity will provide an opportunity for more direct contact between individual students and the lecturer: a typical student might spend a total of one or two hours over the course of the module, either individually or as part of a group.

Assessment Methods

The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners

Other Assessment
Description Semester When Set Percentage Comment
Written exercise1M20N/A
Written exercise1M20N/A
Written exercise1M60Alternative Assessment
Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The course assessments allow the students to develop their problem solving techniques, to practise the methods learnt in the module, to assess their progress and to receive feedback; these assessments have a secondary formative purpose as well as their primary summative purpose.

Reading Lists

Timetable