Foundation • Computing

Further Maths for University Study

Unit 05 — Elective — Term 2
UnitUnit 05
CategoryElective
Credits20
Guided Learning Hours120
Course Description

Extends foundation mathematics with content relevant to computing — functions and graphs, sequences and series, probability and statistics, and translating maths problems into pseudocode.

Course Objectives

To develop the further mathematical skills required for degree-level computer science study.

Key Topics
  1. Plotting linear and quadratic functions
  2. Gradient and intercept
  3. Arithmetic and geometric sequences
  4. Algorithmic complexity (informal)
  5. Probability of simple events
  6. Translating a maths problem into pseudocode
Course Outline (selected weeks, Term 2)
WeekTopic & Activity
14Functions & Graphs
AC1.1 Plot simple linear and quadratic functions. AC1.2 Interpret the gradient and intercept of a graph.
Maths Lab: Graphing Functions by Hand and in Python (matplotlib intro).
16Sequences & Series
AC2.1 Identify arithmetic and geometric sequences. AC2.2 Explain their relevance to algorithmic complexity (informally).
Tutorial: Sequences in Everyday Algorithms.
18Statistics & Probability
AC3.1 Calculate probability of simple events. AC3.2 Apply basic statistical measures to a dataset.
Lab: Probability Simulation in Python.
22Problem Solving with Maths
AC4.1 Translate a mathematical problem into pseudocode. AC4.2 Verify a solution using test data.
Workshop: From Maths Problem to Python Solution.
24Final Assessment Submission
Final submission of Units 04 and 05.
Code and report finalisation.
Learning Outcomes
  1. Plot and interpret simple linear and quadratic functions.
  2. Identify arithmetic and geometric sequences and relate them informally to algorithmic complexity.
  3. Calculate simple probabilities and apply basic statistical measures to a dataset.
  4. Translate a mathematical problem into pseudocode and verify a solution with test data.
Assessment

Assessed by coursework (no written examination) — an assignment, report or portfolio task set at the start of Term 2. A formative draft is reviewed with tutor feedback in Week 20, and the final version is submitted by the end of Week 24. Graded Pass, Merit or Distinction, with plagiarism-checked submissions (Turnitin) and a signed Learner Declaration Form.

Learning Resources
  • Brussels College IT Lab — dedicated workstations for coding and digital-literacy work
  • VS Code, Python IDLE, and standard web browsers
  • Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), Turnitin, W3Schools, Codecademy
  • Brussels College Digital Library — academic English & introductory computing texts
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