Maths Bridging Courses

What?
Why?
When?
What then?

Presented by
Jackie Nicholas
Mathematics Learning Centre

The University of Sydney Page 1

 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 Sydney Page 2
 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 Sydney Page 3

 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 Sydney Page 4

 When? In 2017
Monday 13 February to Tuesday 28 February 2017
10am to 12pm on weekdays
OR
Monday 13 February to Thursday 2 March 2017
6pm to 8pm Monday to Thursday only

Fee: $435
Classes: Twelve classes, two hours each class
16 to 20 students per class
The University of Sydney Page 5
 What then?
Ongoing support at the
Mathematics Learning Centre in 2017

For eligible students of the University of Sydney

More information:
http://www.maths.usyd.edu.au/u/BC
http://sydney.edu.au/mlc and then follow the bridging course links

The University of Sydney Page 6

 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 x2 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 xn for n negative or fractional.
Day 8 The exponential function. Derivative of ex. 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 Sydney Page 7
 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 Sydney Page 8
 Maths bridging courses

Questions?

The University of Sydney Page 9