Foundations for College Mathematics - MBF3C 

Review  

In this unit students will review some important ideas. Specifically, mathematics is the study of patterns and form. Mathematicians communicate their findings by using a special mathematical language. The unit begins with a review of polynomials and how to work with them using addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and the FOIL method. Then students will review factoring of quadratics as an introduction to a lead into a concept taught later in the course, graphing of quadratics. The unit has both a review assignment and quiz.  

Mathematical Models  

This unit begins by discussing the real-world applications using the approximation of parabolas. In the next section students will be given a quadratic equation in standard form (y = ax2 + bx + c) or in vertex form (y = a(x-h)2 + k). From the equation they will set up a table of values and use this to graph the parabola by hand and then using online graphing software. Once students know how to set up a table of values and graph the functions by hand and with using software, they will be encouraged to interpret the effects of the different parameters. Students will also look at examples of Quadratic Relationships that are found in real-life situations and interpret their charts and graphs.  

Exponential Relations  

In this unit students will review the exponent laws before moving on to negative exponents and an exploration of their meanings. Students will also look at real life examples and applications of these tools. Before students begin working with the graphs of exponential relations, they will distinguish exponential relation graphs from linear (straight line) and quadratic relations (parabolas). Students will spend the last lessons of the unit working through applications of exponential functions including exponential growth and decay.  

Personal Finance  

When making major purchases such as cars, homes and recreation vehicles, the cost of borrowing increases because the interest is compounded. Likewise, when interest is earned on interest, we say the interest compounds. The first topic of the unit will be an exploration of compound interest examples, problems and how to use the graphing calculator to solve them. Then the next part of the unit will be done as an assignment – students will be investigating various financial institutions and comparing their services, costs, charges etc. In the last one third of the unit students will look at the financial advantages of buying a new vehicle, a used vehicle or leasing a vehicle.  

Data Management  

Welcome to the wonderful world of Data Management. Whether students are interested in sports, business, travel or just working with numbers they will see applications for the skills taught in this unit. Students will be gathering data, designing questionnaires, conducting surveys, interpreting and analysing findings. The unit begins with an investigation of the various methods of surveying a population. Next the design of the questionnaire to collect data will be examined. Bar graphs or histograms and circle graphs are used to represent data. Then students will also use software to display data. Students will analyse their findings and assess their reliability. Students will also begin an exploration of probability and relative frequency.  

Geometry 

We look at different ways of picturing solid shapes. We use isometric, perspective and orthographic methods to represent 3-dimensional objects. We investigate the nets of shapes, and look at applications of geometry in design, art and architecture. 

Final Assignment

Final Exam  

6 hours

2 hours