Introduction to Mathematical Sciences

What will you learn?

Student obtains the skills and knowledge required for basic courses of mathematical sciences within polytechnical studies.

What do the studies include?

• Real numbers
• Basic arithmetic operations and the order of operations
• Fractions
• Powers, roots and rational exponents
• Polynomials and polynomial equations of 1. and 2. degree
• Simplifying rational expressions
• Percentages
• Simultaneous linear equations
• Lines and parabolas
• Concepts of variable and function
• Graphs of functions and interpretation of graphs
• Basics of geometry and trigonometry
• International system of units, unit conversions
• Calculations involving quantities and units
• Field-specific content

Opening lecture in week 36. Teaching weekly in weeks 36-50. More detailed schedule on the course’s Itslearning pages.

Mathematical skills learned in the course are basic skills needed in vocational studies and in working life. Contents:
– Number representations and number sets
– Basic calculations and order of calculations
– Calculating with fractions and handling fractional expressions
– Quantities and the SI system
– Processing of units in calculations and unit conversions
– Powers and powers of ten (also negative and root = fractional powers)
– Processing of polynomials (Simplification of expressions, also fractional expressions)
– Function values and reading the graph of the function
– 1st degree functions and 1st degree function graph
– 1st degree equations and inequalities (also ratios),
– Percentage calculation
– 2nd degree functions and the graph of a 2nd degree function
– 2nd degree equations and inequalities
– A pair of linear equations
– Right triangle trigonometry
– Basics about the geometry of other bodies