Essential mathematics 2
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This module builds on the concepts and techniques in Essential mathematics 1 (MST124) to provide a complete foundation for higher-level mathematics studies. It introduces enjoyable and essential topics, such as proof, differential equations, mechanics and discrete mathematics, and extends your knowledge of calculus and its applications. You’ll also use mathematical software and learn how to typeset mathematics.
What you will study
There are twelve study units in this module.
In the first unit, you’ll revise and consolidate the mathematics taught in Essential mathematics 1 (MST124).
In the remaining study units you’ll cover the following topics.
- Number theory: you’ll learn about divisibility properties of the integers. These have many practical applications, such as in cryptography.
- Conics: these are the curves obtained by slicing a cone along a plane. Their applications include modelling the motion of planets and other heavenly bodies.
- Geometric transformations: these include reflections, rotations and translations, and other similar ways of transforming geometric figures. You’ll use an algebraic approach, involving matrices and vectors.
- Mathematical language and proof: you’ll look at how mathematical results can be stated clearly, and how they can be proved to be true.
- Further calculus: you’ll extend your knowledge and skills in calculus.
- Differential equations: these are equations that involve an unknown function and one or more of its derivatives. They are used extensively in applied mathematics to model a range of situations involving quantities that change.
- Mechanics: you’ll analyse forces that act on stationary objects, and the motion of moving objects.
- Eigenvalues and eigenvectors: these are numbers and vectors associated with matrices, which arise in a range of situations in both pure and applied mathematics.
- Combinatorics: you’ll learn how to solve problems involving the positive integers, such as how many different ways there are to choose objects from a set. You’ll also study some interesting sequences of numbers, such as the Fibonacci sequence.
With a choice of three options of typesetting software, you’ll learn how to typeset mathematics.
You’ll work mainly from the module books, which are available in electronic formats as well as in print. You can view some of the worked examples in the books in an alternative video format, in which tutors work through and discuss the examples. You’ll use specially designed software applications to help you understand the concepts taught, and the same mathematics computer package as used in Essential mathematics 1 (MST124). There are many online interactive practice questions to help you consolidate your learning.
You can find the full content list on the .
You will learn
In Essential mathematics 2 (MST125), you’ll further develop your mathematical skills and begin to develop new ones:
- thinking logically about mathematical problems
- expressing problems in mathematical language
- using mathematical techniques to find solutions to problems
- communicating mathematical ideas clearly and succinctly
Professional recognition
This module can help you to gain membership of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (IMA).
Entry requirements
You must have passed, or currently be studying, one of the following modules:
Or be able to provide evidence you have the required mathematical skills.
You can .
if you’re not sure you’re ready.
Preparatory work
You should aim to be confident and fluent with the concepts covered in the , and follow the advice in the quiz.
The key topics to revise include:
- algebraic manipulation and solving equations
- quadratics and parabolas
- geometry and trigonometry
- exponentials and logarithms.
Essential mathematics 1 (MST124) is ideal preparation.
What's included
Module books and website, including access to optional tutorials as well as computer applications, which you need to download.
You will need
We recommend a basic scientific Casio ‘Natural’ calculator such as the fx-83GTX PLUS or fx-85GTX PLUS. The module website includes a calculator guide with references to this series of calculator.
Note that the only type of calculator permitted in the final examination is a scientific calculator that does not offer algebraic manipulation, differentiation or integration, language translation or communication with other devices or with the internet. It should also not be programmable, and not have any retrievable information (such as databanks, dictionaries, mathematical formulas or text) stored in it.
Computing requirements
You’ll need broadband internet access and a desktop or laptop computer with an up-to-date version of Windows (10 or 11) or macOS Ventura or higher.
Any additional software, including any required to complete the online invigilated exam, will be provided or is generally freely available.
To join in spoken conversations in tutorials, we recommend a wired headset (headphones/earphones with a built-in microphone). You’ll need a webcam and microphone for the online invigilated exam.
Our module websites comply with web standards, and any modern browser is suitable for most activities.
Our OU Study mobile app will operate on all current, supported versions of Android and iOS. It’s not available on Kindle.
It’s also possible to access some module materials on a mobile phone, tablet device or Chromebook. However, as you may be asked to install additional software or use certain applications, you’ll also require a desktop or laptop, as described above.