In this course, students use algebraic, graphical, and numerical reasoning to recognize patterns and structure, to model information, and to solve real-life problems. Students develop and use mathematical models to solve problems involving function relationships, chance, statistics, and finance. A graphing calculator is used to link modeling techniques and purely mathematical concepts. In addition, students analyze real-life problems within the context of a Christian world view. The ACU course catalog describes MATH 120 as follows:
MATH 120 Quantitative Reasoning (3-0-3), fall, spring, statistics and data analysis, mathematics of finance, probability, models including ratios and proportions, linear, exponential, calculator intensive. Prerequisite: MATH SAT score of 500; MATH ACT score of 20; or COMPASS placement into MATH 120. For non-science, non-business majors. Will satisfy the Mathematics University Core requirements.
Although it is important to remember the basic material for a test, you will find that memorizing without understanding, is not very useful. Throughout the text, we will use many diagrams, analogies, and examples to help you understand mathematical terminology, formulas, equations, and solution methods. If you work at understanding the intuitive meaning behind mathematical concepts, those ideas will become more engrained in your memory.
This site is designed to help you in this task. The course is divided into three units: probability and counting, statistical methods, and financial models. The links below will take you to individual pages for each of the topics within these units. Most pages contain lecture notes, videos, or other resources to assist you in learning the material.
Quantitative Reasoning Topics List
Probability and Counting
- Sets and Counting
- Permutations and Combinations
- Introduction to Probability and Odds
- Complements and Unions
- Conditional Probability
- Expected Value
Statistical Methods
- Organizing and Visualizing Data
- Descriptive Statistics
- Normal Distributions
- Linear Regression
- Inferential Statistics (coming soon)
Financial Models
- Percents and Interest
- Financial Solvers
- Continuous Models, Population Dynamics
- Annuities
- Loans and Mortgages