Introduction to the mathematics review modules
The mathematics review modules are a study tool intended to help the learner review mathematical concepts acquired in secondary school.
Intended audience for the modules
The modules are specifically intended for secondary school or college level students. Nevertheless, they can be helpful to anyone attempting to refresh her/his understanding of fundamental mathematical concepts.
Number and distribution of the lessons
Eighteen lessons are grouped into four modules:
- Sets and Fractions
- Exponents and Factorization
- Equations and Inequalities
- Algebraic Functions - Exponential Equations - Logarithmic Equations - Trigonometry
Modules 1,3, and 4 include a cumulative test, and module 2 includes two tests.
HELPFUL HINTS
Keep a pencil, some paper and a calculator on hand. You will need these as you work through the exercises in each lesson.
TYPICAL LESSON CONTENT
Each lesson is comprised of four parts:
The theory section presents the mathematical notion, rule, operation, or definition on which the lesson is based. The lessons are presented so as to follow a logical development of the concepts.
After the presentation of the theory there are a number of examples, with the number depending upon the complexity of the concept. Examples are arranged in an order of increasing difficulty. The examples chosen cover a typical set of problems associated with the concept.
In certain examples the use of either contrast or colour has been used to emphasize operations on which a solution to the problem is based.
Exercises are presented in increasing order of difficulty and vary in number from lesson to lesson. You will be able to choose between two or three answers to an exercise, and sometimes will have the option of viewing a detailed solution.
In many of the lessons you are able to ask for a `helping hand' if you are having trouble. You will then be provided with advice on how to begin the solution, or a suggestion allowing you to complete the exercise.
If you choose the correct answer on your first attempt you receive 2 points, and will then be invited to review a detailed explanation of the exercise's solution. In certain cases a question may have more than one correct answer so you will receive 2 points for any of the correct choices. If the answer you have chosen is incomplete, or not simplified, you will receive 1 point, and feedback.
If you choose an incorrect answer you will be able to try the exercise again, but you will not receive any points for a second attempt. You may take a look at the detailed solution to the exercise to help complete your understanding.
Evaluation and Recommendations
At the end of each lesson you will receive a score based on the number of points accumulated while completing the exercises. If your score is good, or excellent you will receive a congratulatory message. This message will instruct you to continue to the next lesson, or possibly to review the notions to improvement your performance. If your score is not quite good enough you will be instructed to repeat the lesson.
There are five cumulative tests. Each of these tests aims to integrate the different notions covered in the preceding lessons.
Unlike the lessons, the tests contain neither theory nor examples. Rather, they contain 10 or 15 questions, some of which trigger feedback and suggestions when responses are submitted. Scoring is evaluated according to the same formula as the exercises in the lessons. Recommendations are made by the system according to your overall results.