Exams and revision

Modules & CreditsModules:

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!!!