ICCS Syllabus - CMC104 - Basic Maths for Computing

 Introduction

The purpose of Basic Maths for Computing is to give candidates an understanding of the mathematical concepts underlying many computer-related processes and developments and to encourage them to understand how to apply mathematical skills to common problems.

General Objectives

Upon successful completion of Basic Maths for Computing candidates will be able to demonstrate a satisfactory practical performance and understanding in the following topic areas:

A. Elementary Arithmetic Procedures.

B. Fractions and Percentages.

C. Algebraic Techniques.

D. Number Based Systems.

E. Graphs.

F. Data types and structures.

Specific Objectives

Objective A: Elementary Arithmetic Procedures

A1.Use the five fundamental arithmetic operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and exponentiation.

A2.Estimate the results of arithmetic calculation without using a calculator.

A3.Understand the order of precedence for arithmetic operations and the laws of association, commutivity and distribution.

A4.Understand the concept of a number line and perform arithmetic operations on signed numbers.

A5.Sort values on different criteria.

Objective B: Fractions and Percentages

B1.Understand what is meant by a fraction and be able to reduce fractions to their simplest form. Understand mixed numbers and vulgar fractions.

B2.Be able to perform arithmetic operations on fractions.

B3.Understand what is meant by decimals. Be able to round numbers and express in terms of significant figures. Understand standard form representation.

B4.Be able to convert between fractions and decimals.

B5.Be able to express percentages as fractions and decimals.

B6.Undertake problems involving the practical applications of fractions and percentages.

Objective C: Algebraic Techniques

C1.Understand the use of symbols instead of numbers.

C2.Be able to rearrange formulae.

C3.Understand the simplification of algebraic expressions.

C4.Be able to solve simple equations in one variable.

Objective D : Number Base Systems

D1.Understand the concept of ‘place value’ in number systems.

D2.Understand the binary, octal and hexadecimal systems.

Objective E: Graphs

E1.Understand the terminology of graph plotting.

E2.Understand the representation of plotted shapes using matrices.

E3.Be able to draw xy graphs for straight lines and simple curves.

E4.Be able to construct other types of graph.

Objective F: Data Types and Structures

F1. Appreciate which are the fundamental simple data structures.

F2. Understand about the need for compound data structures.

Assessing Basic Mathematics for Computing

This module will be assessed solely by examination.

Examination

The examination will be a two hour, closed book examination. It will consist of seven questions the first one being compulsory with the candidates having to attempt four from the remaining six. Each question will be worth 20 marks. The questions will be designed to cover the syllabus based on the following matrix. To pass the module candidates must score at least 50%.