Mathematics 100
I. Course Title: Quantitative Reasoning (GE)
II. Course Number: MATH 100
III. Credit Hours: 3 credits
IV. Prerequisites: None
V. Course Description:
This course focuses the mathematical needs of students in majors where the broader applications of foundational mathematical topics is more important than the development of more sophisticated mathematical tools. Topics include mathematical modeling, descriptive statistics, financial mathematics, and voting theory.
Note(s): Foundational Mathematics and General Education designated course. Will not satisfy requirements for a major in mathematics. Credit for MATH 100 may not be received after receiving credit for a higher numbered MATH course.
VI. Detailed Description of Content of the Course:
Topics:
1. Mathematical modeling
- a. Units, scale, and percents
- b. Linear models
- c. Quadratic models
- d. Exponential models
- e. Logarithmic models
2. Financial mathematics
- a. Simple Interest
- b. Compound Interest
- c. Annuities and mortgages
3. Descriptive statistics
- a. The idea of statistics
- b. Frequency distributions
- c. Graphical descriptions of data, such as bar and pie charts, stem-and-leaf diagrams, and histograms
- d. Mean, median, and mode
- e. Variance, standard deviation, and range
4. Voting theory
- a. Voting
- b. Voting Problems
- c. Apportionment (time permitting)
VII. Detailed Description of Conduct of Course:
Most instructors will use the lecture method; some may require students to work together in small groups. Calculators and/or computers will be used both inside and outside class. In all sections, students will be expected to work problems assigned as homework.
VIII. Goals and Objectives of the Course:
Students will acquire knowledge and techniques that permit them to understand and employ mathematical methods for measuring, assessing, modeling, and forecasting. Additionally, students will be able to comprehend quantitative claims and data, and be armored against the intentional or unintentional use of statistics or argument to deceive and distort.
Students will be able to:
- Translate information among various mathematical forms (e.g., equations, graphs, diagrams, tables, words).
- Successfully solve problems using appropriate mathematical tools.
- Draw appropriate conclusions based on mathematical evidence.
IX. Assessment Measures:
Graded tasks may include homework, computer projects, quizzes and written exams; they may also include group projects and written or oral class participation.
Review and Approval
August 2020
March 01, 2021