Preparatory Certificates
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These sample tests give an approximate idea of the style and level of question you might be asked in your UPC entrance tests.
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> Mathematics
This subject module is recommended for students wishing to
continue studying their undergraduate degrees at UCL on the following
degree programmes: Economics BSc, Economics and Finance BSc, Mathematics BSc, Mathematics with Economics BSc, Statistics BSc, Statistics, Economics
and Finance BSc, Arts and Sciences BASc amongst others.
This course provides key mathematical knowledge and skills for higher education.
It has
two main aims: the academic aim is to study a selection of the topics usually
covered in A-level mathematics and further mathematics to a very high academic
standard, both broadening and deepening the student’s knowledge.
In addition,
the course aims to prepare the students with the skills necessary for
successful study at a British university, namely to prepare them for a more
independent, self-motivated, questioning way of study. The method and reasoning
behind the correct answers will be emphasized.
Content and skills
You should be familiar with the topics of algebra, trigonometry and
geometry, as taught at secondary schools in general.
Topics covered include:
- Algebra (3 weeks): quadratic eqns and their roots, sum and product of roots, remainder theorem, factor theorem, binomial theorem for all real powers, applications, hyperbolic functions, partial fractions;
- Series (3 weeks):arithmetic and geometric series, ratio, comparison, limit-comparison and n-th term tests for convergence, Taylor series and Maclaurin series;
- Proof (1 week): methods and language of proof, proof by induction; - Matrices (2 weeks): matrix arithmetic, simultaneous equations, solving systems by row reduction, inverses, inverses and systems of equations;
- Differentiation (4-5 weeks): first principles, differentiating polynomial, trig, exponential, log, inverse trig and hyperbolic trig functions, product, quotient and chain rule, implicit diff, curve sketching and extrema;
- Integration (4-5 weeks): Techniques (substitution, trig and hyberbolic trig substitution, parts), area, volume, basic differential eqns;
- Complex numbers (2 weeks): imaginary numbers, arithmetic, complex roots, Argand diagrams, modulus-argument form, de Moivre's theorem;
- Statistics (4-5 weeks); descriptive stats, basic probability, permutations and combinations, binomial and poisson probability.
Course structure
The course is organised by lectures and tutorials. In addition to the end of term tests and final exam, you will have to hand in regular coursework throughout the year.
Page last modified on 07 feb 13 11:28 by Martin L White
