Mathematical Fundamentals: Functions and Algebra

Course Description

Welcome to "Mathematical Fundamentals: Functions and Algebra," a comprehensive course designed to provide you with a solid foundation in essential mathematical concepts and their real-world applications. This course is the first part of the prestigious MathTrackX XSeries Program offered by AdelaideX, a division of the University of Adelaide.

In this introductory-level course, you'll embark on an exciting journey through the world of mathematics, guided by experts from the School of Mathematics and the Maths Learning Centre at the University of Adelaide. The primary focus of this course is to introduce you to the fundamental concept of functions, which is crucial for understanding various mathematical principles and their practical applications.

What students will learn from the course:

• A strong foundation in basic mathematical vocabulary
• The concept of functions and their importance in mathematics
• Algebra of numbers and polynomials
• Understanding sets of numbers and intervals on the real number line
• Basic problem-solving skills in mathematics
• Graphing and interpreting polynomials
• Application of mathematical concepts to real-world scenarios

Pre-requisites or skills necessary to complete the course:

This course is designed for beginners, and there are no specific prerequisites. However, a basic understanding of high school mathematics and a willingness to learn will be beneficial.

What the course will cover:

• Introduction to mathematical vocabulary and communication
• The concept of functions and their significance in mathematics
• Algebra of numbers and operations
• Polynomials: definition, operations, and applications
• Sets of numbers and their properties
• Intervals on the real number line
• Graphing techniques for polynomials
• Problem-solving strategies using mathematical concepts

Who this course is for:

This course is ideal for:

• High school students looking to strengthen their math foundations
• College students preparing for advanced math courses
• Professionals seeking to refresh their mathematical skills
• Anyone interested in developing a deeper understanding of mathematical concepts and their applications

How learners can use these skills in the real world:

The skills acquired in this course have numerous real-world applications:

1. Data analysis and interpretation in various fields such as business, science, and engineering
2. Financial modeling and forecasting
3. Problem-solving in everyday situations
4. Improved logical thinking and decision-making abilities
5. Enhanced ability to understand and interpret scientific and technical information
6. Foundation for advanced studies in mathematics, physics, computer science, and other STEM fields

Syllabus:

While a detailed syllabus is not provided, the course is structured to cover the following main topics:

1. Introduction to mathematical vocabulary and functions
2. Algebra of numbers and operations
3. Polynomials and their properties
4. Sets of numbers and intervals on the real number line
5. Graphing techniques and interpretation
6. Problem-solving and real-world applications