Module manager: Dr Marcelo Miranda
Email: m.miranda@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2023/24
GCSE Mathematics (or equivalent)
| CHEM1281 | Mathematical Tools for Chemists |
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module is intended for Chemistry students who did not develop their mathematical skills significantly beyond GCSE level; its goal is to equip students with the basic mathematical skills necessary to gain a full understanding of Chemistry. It will progress from arithmetic to algebra and calculus, with emphasis on problem solving and with extensive use of chemical examples. The teaching methods will include lectures and problem-solving workshops.
On completion of this module, students should have gained confidence and proficiency in a set of mathematical manipulations appropriate to the study of chemistry and be able to apply these to chemical problems.
1. The students will gain knowledge in the application of mathematics to solve chemical problems.
2. The students will acquire the mathematical background necessary for further study of uses of mathematics in chemistry.
3. The students will develop an understanding of mathematical principles and an appreciation of mathematics as a logical and coherent subject.
4. The students acquire a range of mathematical skills, and become able to apply mathematics also in the context of everyday situations.
5. The students will develop the ability to analyse problems logically and, when appropriate, to tackle problems mathematically.
Aspects of arithmetic, algebra, linear algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus with wide application in chemistry. Specific applications of mathematics in Chemistry.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Workshop | 9 | 1 | 9 |
| Lecture | 13 | 1 | 13 |
| Independent online learning hours | 7 | ||
| Private study hours | 71 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 22 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 100 | ||
Much of the private study time will consist of problem solving. Students will be provided with lists of practice problems in the classroom and will be advised to attempt problems from the books in the reading list. Some but not all of the exercises in the lists of practice problems will be attempted in the problem-solving workshops. As usual, private study will also involve revision of class materials, lecture notes, and textbook reading. Some of the assessment will take the form of online tests, which can be taken multiple times, and therefore will double as practice exercises.
In problem-solving workshops students will have the opportunity to discuss their work, along with technical issues and problem-solving approaches, directly with staff. As online tests will be available for multiple attempts, with problems being indicated as correctly or wrongly answered each time, this will also help students assess their own development, strengths, and weaknesses.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Online Assessment | 4 x Online Assessments each worth 6.25% of module mark | 25 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 25 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
| Exam type | Exam duration | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Open Book exam | 2.0 Hrs 0 Mins | 75 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Exams) | 75 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
The reading list is available from the Library website
Last updated: 4/28/2023
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team