Exams and revision
Modules & Credits
Modules:
MAT1015 Calculus (30 credits)
MAT1016 Linear algebra (30 credits)
MAT1017 Proof, probability and experiment (30 credits)
+ 3 programme specific 10 credit modules.
Passing Level 1
• Need 120 credits to pass a Level.
• You get the credits for a module if you pass
the module.
• Need 40% in the assessment of a module
in order to pass it.
Compensation Credits
• If you fail a module, the exam board may give
compensation credits, if you have at least 90 credits
and
– Either you have an overall average mark > 40%
and at least 30% in the failed module
– Or you have an overall average mark > 50% and
at least 25% in the failed module
• Compensation is not automatic!
• Details in Student Handbook, pages 14-16
Progressing to level 2
• If you have 120 credits, you progress to the next
Level (Music students need 60% in performance)
• If you have 90 credits at the current Level, you can
still progress to the next level but you will need to
resit enough modules to make up the missing
credits.
• If you have less than 90 credits then you will be
“course suspended”.
Failed modules
• If you fail a module, you have the right to resit the
part of the module that you have failed once only
• You cannot resit passed modules
• Some Level 1 resits in the summer
Exam Boards
• Mitigating circumstances/medical panel
• Exam board makes recommendations to SPAB
(Student Progress & Assessment Board) on
progression, compensation, resits, warnings,
terminations.
• Marks only available AFTER the Exam Board.
Exams
• More formal than class tests.
• You will be given a timetable, but it is important to
keep checking noticeboards/emails for last minute
changes.
• Have to sit where told: a list will be posted outside
the exam room shortly before the start of the
exam.
• Only a few specific models of calculator are
allowed (see student handbook, page 15).
• Bring your URN card!
Exam Revision
• Know your DEFINITIONS!
• Some exam questions ask for a definition explicitly, for some you need to start
with the definition (“Proof by checking the definition’’)
• The precise text of a definition is not enough; Try to give
– examples, counter-examples,
– paraphrase/say in your own words,
– connections with other definitions. What follows from them?
Exam Revision (continued)
• Same as for definitions holds to named THEOREMS.
Also think about the conditions of a theorem (why are they needed?)
• Do exercises of past exercise sheets, without looking at solutions first.
• http://www.maths.surrey.ac.uk/ug/past-exam-papers.php
for past years’ exams.
Level 2 – Maple TA Test
• Traditionally, the Autumn Semester of Level 2 appears to be hard –
many students seem to get the hang of it only (too) late in the
semester. We’re trying to address this.
• Mathematics is a cumulative subject: Level 2 builds on what you have
learnt so far – this knowledge is going to be used immediately.
• The purpose of the Techniques Test is to ensure that you begin Level
2 with a high level of proficiency in the areas that it covers.
Form of the Level 2 Test
• The test will consist of 12 randomly-chosen questions that you must answer within 1
hour (unless you are allowed extra time in exams).
• The test uses Maple TA: you log in to a dedicated web page, do the test and receive
your mark immediately after completing the test.
• You may take the test (with a new selection of questions) as often as you wish up to the
end of Week 2.
• If you don’t pass within two weeks, you will be required to take remedial classes.
• We will notify you when the test becomes available (late September).
Which areas are tested?
• The test covers all of the core mathematical techniques that you have encountered at A
Level and Level 1 (except statistics)
• Core techniques include:
– evaluation of single and multiple integrals,
– solution of ordinary differential equations,
– the Taylor Series of a given function about a point,
– vector algebra, vector calculus,
– matrix methods including eigenvalues/vectors.
Preparation to pass the test.
• The pass mark is high: 75%.
• Don't underestimate the amount of revision - allow plenty of time for
each topic.
• Once you are sure that you understand the techniques, practise
using them. Go over past problem sheets; look online and in
textbooks for further examples.
Finally
• These slides will be on the Web (Current
students, Level 1)
• Thank you for your attention.
• Learn those definitions!!!