OFA MATEMATICA L-34
Academic Year 2026/2027 - Teacher: ARMANDO COCOExpected Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and understanding
By the end of the course, students will have acquired the basic mathematical knowledge required to successfully undertake the course in Mathematics and Elements of Statistics. In particular, they will be able to understand elementary mathematical language, use mathematical notation correctly, and work with real numbers, algebraic expressions, equations, and elementary functions.
Applying knowledge and understanding
Students will be able to apply the main techniques of algebraic calculation, solve simple equations, inequalities, and systems of linear equations, graph simple functions, and interpret their fundamental properties.
Making judgements
Students will develop the ability to select the most appropriate solution methods for elementary mathematical problems and to verify the correctness of the results obtained.
Communication skills
Students will be able to explain solution procedures clearly, using correct mathematical terminology and appropriate notation.
Learning skills
The course will promote the development of an effective study method for mathematics, fostering independence in solving exercises and checking results.
Course Structure
Face-to-face lectures and individual and group works.
Information for students with disabilities and / or SLD
To guarantee equal opportunities and in compliance with the laws in force, interested students can ask for a personal interview in order to plan any compensatory and / or dispensatory measures, based on the didactic objectives and specific needs. It is also possible to contact the referent teacher CInAP (Center for Active and Participated Integration - Services for Disabilities and / or SLD) of our Department.
Required Prerequisites
No prerequisites are expected.
Attendance of Lessons
Attendance is compulsory for students required to fulfil the Mathematics Additional Educational Requirement (OFA).
Detailed Course Content
Course content
Review of arithmetic and algebra. Natural numbers, integers, rational and real numbers. Basic operations and their properties. Powers and their properties. Scientific notation. Rounding and significant figures. Absolute value. Numerical and algebraic expressions. Monomials and polynomials. Special products. Polynomial factorization. Algebraic fractions. Sets: membership, inclusion, union, and intersection. First- and second-degree equations. Elementary equations involving powers and radicals. Systems of two linear equations in two unknowns. First- and second-degree inequalities. Elementary rational inequalities. The Cartesian coordinate system. Graphical representation of simple functions. Interpretation of function graphs. Linear and quadratic functions.
Contribution of the course to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (Agenda 2030)
The course contributes to the development of the basic quantitative skills required for scientific education and for the understanding of natural and environmental phenomena, thereby promoting equitable access to higher education and supporting students' academic success.
Textbook Information
| Author | Title | Publisher | Year | ISBN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bramanti, M., Confortola, F., & Salsa, S. | Matematica per le scienze | Zanichelli | 2024 | 9788808320704 |
Course Planning
| Subjects | Text References | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Review of arithmetic and algebra. Natural numbers, integers, rational and real numbers. Basic operations and their properties. Powers and their properties. Scientific notation. Rounding, significant figures, and absolute value. | 1, 2, 3 |
| 2 | Algebraic manipulation. Monomials and polynomials. Special products. Polynomial factorization. Algebraic fractions. Sets and set operations. | 1, 2, 3 |
| 3 | First- and second-degree equations. Elementary equations involving powers and radicals. Systems of two linear equations in two unknowns. | 1, 2, 3 |
| 4 | First- and second-degree inequalities. Elementary rational inequalities. | 1, 2, 3 |
| 5 | The Cartesian coordinate system. Graphical representation and interpretation of simple functions. Linear and quadratic functions. | 1, 2, 3 |
Learning Assessment
Learning Assessment Procedures
Written examination, consisting of 10 questions.
Assessment criteria: The evaluation will take into account the clarity of presentation, the completeness of the student's knowledge, and the ability to connect different topics. Students are expected to demonstrate a sufficient understanding of the main topics covered in the course and the ability to solve at least the simplest of the assigned exercises.
Examples of frequently asked questions and / or exercises