Course Title: Use a range of techniques to solve mathematical problems
Part B: Course Detail
Teaching Period: Term1 2025
Course Code: MATH7081
Course Title: Use a range of techniques to solve mathematical problems
School: 535T Social Care and Health
Campus: City Campus
Program: C4411 - Certificate IV in Tertiary Preparation
Course Contact: Tracey Salter
Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 4277
Course Contact Email: tracey.salter@rmit.edu.au
Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff
David Thomas
david.b.thomas@rmit.edu.au
Nominal Hours: 110
Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.
Pre-requisites and Co-requisites
None
Course Description
This unit describes the skills and knowledge to use a range of specialist techniques and concepts to solve mathematical problems.
National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria
National Element Code & Title: |
VU22074 Use a range of techniques to solve mathematical problems |
Element: |
1 Use ratio, proportion and percent to solve problems |
Performance Criteria: |
1.1 Determine a ratio from information in a practical problem and express it in simplest form 1.2 Divide a quantity into a given ratio 1.3 Convert between fractions, decimals and percent forms 1.4 Calculate a percentage increase or decrease of a quantity |
Element: |
2 Use trigonometry to determine lengths and angles |
Performance Criteria: |
2.1 Use Pythagoras’ Theorem to determine an unknown side of a right angled triangle 2.2 Use Pythagoras’ Theorem and trigonometric ratios to find unknown side lengths and angles in triangles |
Element: |
3 Use indices to solve problems |
Performance Criteria: |
3.1 Evaluate index form expressions 3.2 Simplify exponential expressions using the first two index laws 3.3 Convert between decimal numbers and numbers expressed in Standard Notation 3.4 Perform calculations with numbers expressed in Standard Notation, using a calculator |
Element: |
4 Use measurements to solve mensuration problems in two and three dimensions |
Performance Criteria: |
4.1 Determine lengths and perimeters of rectangles, triangles, circles and simple combined shapes using appropriate and correct units 4.2 Determine areas of rectangles, triangles, circles and simple combined shapes using appropriate and correct units 4.3 Determine volumes of prisms and pyramids with rectangular, triangular and circular cross-sections and with simple combined shapes as cross sections using appropriate and correct units |
Element: |
5 Substitute into and transpose equations and formulae |
Performance Criteria: |
5.1 Substitute given values into equations and formulae 5.2 Write equations to solve problems 5.3 Transpose formulae 5.4 Solve linear equations |
Element: |
6 Solve problems by plotting points |
Performance Criteria: |
6.1 Plot given points and points determined from the general formula y = mx+c on the Cartesian plane 6.2 Determine the gradient of a straight line 6.3 Determine the equation of a straight line, where the equation has the general form y = mx+c, y = a and x = b 6.4 Use interpolation and extrapolation to make predictions from the line of best fit, noting limitations |
Element: |
7 Present and evaluate statistical information |
Performance Criteria: |
7.1 Collect, organise and graphically represent statistical data 7.2 Interpret and analyse statistical information |
Element: |
8 Identify connections between formulae and graphical representations |
Performance Criteria: |
8.1 Use graphical techniques to draw linear and non-linear graphs 8.2 Develop equations for given linear graphs, including lines of best fit |
Element: |
9 Use algebraic techniques to analyse and solve problems |
Performance Criteria: |
9.1 Develop formulae to describe relationships between variables and substitute into formulae to find particular values 9.2 Use a range of techniques to solve a range of algebraic problems and perform algebraic manipulations |
Learning Outcomes
Details of Learning Activities
- Discussion of mathematical concepts relevant to each topic
- Discussion of the mathematical routines and procedures for solving problems related to each topic
- Working independently or in groups in solving problems on exercise and work sheets
- Working in groups to solve more challenging problems requiring interpretation and evaluation of results
Teaching Schedule
Learning Resources
Prescribed Texts
References
Other Resources
Handouts and online learning materials will be provided during the course.
A scientific calculator is needed to solve problems.
An exercise book to complete exercises.
The University Library has extensive resources and provides subject specialist expertise, research advice, help with referencing and support through:
The Learning Lab
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/learning-lab
The Study Support Hub
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/study-support-hub
English for uni workshops
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/study-support/workshops/english-uni-workshops
Overview of Assessment
Assessment in this course may include:
Worksheets
Quizzes
Assignments
Tests
Assessment Tasks
Students enrolled in Vocational Education and Training qualifications are assessed for Competency. To be assessed as Competent means you have consistently demonstrated the required knowledge and skills at a standard expected in the workplace.
To be assessed as Competent in this course, you will need to complete each assessment task to a satisfactory standard. You will receive feedback from the teacher at the conclusion of each assessment task.
You should refer to the assessment brief which is available through Canvas for full assessment criteria and due dates.
- Assessment task 1 (Initial Quiz) Refer to Canvas for assessment date.
- Assessment task 2 (Workbook) comprises of a Workbook, a set of worksheets to be completed/assessed during the semester and used as an ongoing assessment tool. Refer to Canvas for assessment date. Students to upload the completed worksheets on Canvas after assessed by the teacher.
- Assessment task 3 (Final Quiz) Refer to Canvas for assessment date.
Results that apply to courses that are delivered and assessed in accordance with competency-based assessment are:
CA Competency Achieved
NYC Not Yet Competent
DNS Did Not Submit for assessment
To successfully complete the course, you need to achieve a satisfactory result for every assessment task.
For each assessment you will be given up to two (2) attempts, however, to be granted the second attempt at any assessment, your first attempt must be an appropriate attempt to try and gain a satisfactory outcome. For example, you must appropriately attempt each question or aspect of the assessment task.
If your first attempt fails to meet the above standard, you may not be eligible for a second attempt at that task.
A third (3rd) attempt can only be offered after discussions between teacher and the Program Coordinator and is not automatic
Assessment Matrix
The assessment matrix demonstrates alignment of assessment tasks with the relevant unit of competency. These mapping documents are available through Program Administration if required.
Other Information
This course is graded in accordance with competency-based assessment
CA Competency Achieved
NYC Not Yet Competent
DNS Did Not Submit for assessment
Attendance:
Your learning experience will involve class-based teaching, discussion, demonstration and practical exercises
It is strongly advised that you attend all timetabled sessions. This will allow you to engage in the required learning activities, ensuring you the maximum opportunity to complete this course successfully.
Information about your studies:
You can access My Studies through the RMIT website for information about timetables, important dates, assessment dates, results and progress, Canvas etc.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students
Extensions of time for submission of assessable work:
If you are prevented from submitting an assessment on time by circumstances outside your control you may apply for an extension of up to seven (7) calendar days in writing (email) to your Program Coordinator one working day BEFORE the due date. Eligibility criteria for application and the form is available from the link: https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/assessment/extensions-of-time-for-submission-of-assessable-work
Where an extension of greater than seven days is needed, you must apply for special consideration.
Special consideration:
If due to illness or other unforeseen circumstance, you are unable to attend on the due date of an assessment (e.g. test, examination, oral, etc.), you may submit an application for special consideration within 5 working days of the due date. If special consideration is granted, you will be given the opportunity to complete/repeat the assessment task at a later date. For advice on this applicationplease visit www.rmit.edu.au/students/specialconsiderationor speak to your Program Coordinator.
Academic Integrity and Plagiarism:
RMIT University has a strict policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Please refer to the website for more information on this policy.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/assessment-and-exams/academic-integrity
Use of AI has certain restrictions in this course. Please refer to assessment instructions for guidelines on the conditions for the use of AI tools in assessments.
Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning:
Credit transfer is the recognition of previously completed formal learning (an officially accredited qualification).
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that allows you to demonstrate competence using the skills you have gained through experience in the workplace, voluntary work, informal or formal training or other life experiences.
Please speak to your teacher if you wish to discuss applying for Credit Transfer or RPL for the unit(s) of competency addressed in this course.
https://www.rmit.edu.au/students/student-essentials/enrolment/apply-for-credit
Course Overview: Access Course Overview