EC121: Mathematical Techniques A

Emil Kostadinov
Module Leader

12 CATS - Department of Economics

Autumn Module

Principal Aims

This module provides an introductory treatment on univariate and multivariate calculus, compounding and discounting, constrained optimization and matrix algebra, appropriate for joint honours degrees with Economics.

Principal Learning Outcomes

acquire the tools of quantitative methods necessary to study core and optional first and second year modules in economics for the single honours course in Economics.

develop further their techniques of statistical methods and statistical modelling;

generate an awareness and analysis of data and of data handling.

Syllabus

The module will typically cover the following topics:

Revision of basic algebra; Introduction to calculus; Series (AP, GP, present value calculations); Exponential & logarithmic functions; Functions of two variables (calculus, constrained optimisation, applications); Integration; Difference equations; Applications in economics

Context

Core Module: V7ML - Year 1, R9L1 - Year 1, R3L4 - Year 1, R4L1 - Year 1, R2L4 - Year 1, L1L8 - Year 1, R1L4 - Year 1, LM1H - Year 1
Optional Core Module: LM1D (LLD2) - Year 1
Pre or Co-requisites: At least a grade A in GCSE Mathematics, or equivalent.
Part-year Availability for Visiting Students: Available in the Autumn term only (1 x test 4.8 CATS)

Assessment

Assessment Method: Coursework (30%) + 1.5-hour examination (Summer) (70%)
Coursework Details: Test 1 (12%), Test 2 (12%), 6 x problem sets (1% each) (6%), 1.5-hour examination (Summer) (70%)
Exam Timing: N/A

Exam Rubric

Time Allowed: 1.5 Hours, plus 15 minutes reading time.

Read all instructions carefully - and read through the entire paper at least once before you start entering your answers.

There are TWO sections in this paper. Answer ALL TEN questions in Section A using the Excel spreadsheet (40 marks total) and answer ALL FOUR questions in Section B inside this document (60 marks total).

Approved pocket calculators are allowed.

You should not submit answers to more than the required number of questions. If you do, we will mark the questions in the order that they appear, up to the required number of questions in each section.

Previous exam papers can be found in the University’s past papers archive. Please note that previous exam papers may not have operated under the same exam rubric or assessment weightings as those for the current academic year. The content of past papers may also be different.