EP30.FSF1117 — English for Applied Mathematics

This course serves as a gateway to academic English in Applied Mathematics for first-year students. It develops students’ ability to use English as a tool for studying foundational mathematics while gradually introducing the terminology and discourse conventions of core applied mathematical fields. The course strengthens reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills in academic contexts, with emphasis on mathematical definitions, explanations, and structured reasoning.

In addition to reinforcing English used in calculus, linear algebra, and introductory probability, the course provides early exposure to key concepts and terminology from optimization, operations research, numerical methods, mathematical modeling, and data-oriented applications. The focus is not on technical depth, but on understanding how mathematical ideas are formulated, described, and communicated in English-language textbooks and academic materials.

Through lectures and seminar-based activities, students practice interpreting mathematical texts, writing structured explanations and short summaries, presenting mathematical ideas, and participating in academic discussions. The course prepares students for advanced study in Applied Mathematics where English is used as a primary medium for learning, research, and professional communication.

Main Topics

(A) Academic English Foundations

Academic English for foundational mathematics (calculus, linear algebra, probability)

Mathematical definitions, theorems, examples, and explanatory language

Academic vocabulary and terminology in Applied Mathematics

(B) Terminology in Core Applied Mathematics Fields

Introduction to terminology in optimization and operations research

Introduction to terminology in numerical methods and computational mathematics

Introduction to terminology in mathematical modeling and data analysis

(C) Academic Skills Development

Reading strategies for mathematical textbooks and academic materials

Writing structured summaries and mathematical explanations

Presenting mathematical ideas and interpreting quantitative results

Seminar discussion and academic interaction skills

Requirements for Final Examination

Students are allowed to take the final/terminal exams (50%) if their attendance score (10%) is 5 or higher (on a 10-point scale).

See Appendix 2, Rubric 1 for attendance evaluation.

Requirements for Class Attendance

Students are responsible for attending all classes. In case of absence due to force majeure, students must provide sufficient and reasonable proof. For each absence, 1 point will be deducted from the attendance score. Students who miss more than 3 classes, with or without valid reasons, will be considered as failing to complete the course and must re-register.

Students will be awarded points for constructive comments. These points will be added to attendance and group assignment scores.

Groups that do not submit their group work will receive a score of 0. Late submissions will incur a deduction for each day they are late.

Requirements for In-class Behaviour

The course is conducted on the principle of mutual respect between learners and lecturers. Any behavior that disrupts the teaching and learning process is strictly prohibited.

Students must arrive on time for class. Those who are more than 10 minutes late will not be allowed to attend. Noise and other disturbances that affect the learning process are not permitted.

Laptops and tablets may only be used for taking notes and performing calculations related to lectures and exercises. Use for any other purpose is strictly prohibited.