Introductory Mathematics for Economics 1

Summary module description:
This module provides an introduction to the mathematical concepts which are of key importance in economics and to which reference is made in compulsory taught modules for single and joint degree programmes in the Department of Economics.

Aims:
This module provides an introduction to the mathematical concepts which are of key importance in economics and to which reference is made in compulsory taught modules for single and joint degree programmes in the Department of Economics. It aims to enable students whose background in mathematics is less rigorous to understand and use mathematical notation and techniques in the particular application to economic theory.

Assessable learning outcomes:
At the end of the module, students should:
(i) develop an understanding of the relevance of mathematics in economics;
(ii) handle with confidence and accuracy the techniques of algebra and calculus required for the solution of economic equations;
(iii) interpret a range of economic problems and select the appropriate procedure for solution.

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:
Topics covered include linear and quadratic equations, logarithms and exponentials, graphical analysis, derivatives of functions of a single variable and an introduction to partial differentiation and simple optimisation.

Global context:
Together with the ?Introductory quantitative methods for economics and business 1? this module develops the quantitative background for the joint honours study of economics. Taken together with the ?Introductory quantitative methods 2 and study skills? and ?Introductory mathematics for economics 2? this module develops the quantitative background for single honours study of economics.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Lectures will cover all the main module material with reference to text made where appropriate. Students will also be expected to attend workshop classes with prepared exercises for discussion of solutions.

Students are required to take notes in lectures and tutorials to supplement materials provided.

There will be an additional class in the Spring term for which students will be expected to submit answers to past examination questions.

Based on an initial assessment in week 1 some students will be required to undertake an additional 10 hours of intensive teaching each day in weeks 3 and 4 of the autumn term. These hours will be compulsory for those students who are identified as requiring this intensive teaching.

Summative Assessment Methods:
Written exam 60%
Written assignment including essay 10%
Set exercise 10%
Class test administered by School 20%

Other information on summative assessment:
Coursework has a total weight of 40% in the final assessment.

A written assignment/essay will count for 10% of the final mark. Assessment integrates mathematical technique with selected topics in microeconomics.

A number of online set exercises will contribute 10% of the final mark.

There will be 5 in-class tests. The in-class test in week 1 is the basis on which student are allocated to the additional lecture hours (see * above). The four remaining in-class tests will each contribute 5% to the overall module mark.

Formative assessment methods:
Tutorial exercises are the basis for formative feedback.

Penalties for late submission:
The Module Convener will apply the following penalties for work submitted late, in accordance with the University policy.
where the piece of work is submitted up to one calendar week after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for the piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: http://www.reading.ac.uk/web/FILES/qualitysupport/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Length of examination:
One 2-hour unseen written paper.
Part 1 examinations are held in the Summer term.

Requirements for a pass:
A weighted minimum overall mark of 40%.