Unit Overview

Description

This unit provides students with an introduction to key mathematical concepts used in everyday life and the workplace. Designed for students with limited mathematical backgrounds, it develops confidence and competence in numeracy, algebra, financial mathematics, measurement and statistics. Students will work individually and collaboratively to complete exercises in each of the content areas. Emphasis is placed on applying mathematical skills to solve practical problems and interpreting results in real-world contexts.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationModeFirst year of offer
Not available in 2026OnlineFlexible
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) apply numerical skills to solve problems involving percentages, ratios and rates in real-world contexts.; (2) simplify algebraic expression, solve linear equations, rearrange formulas and sketch linear graphs; (3) perform financial calculations involving wages, taxation, simple and compound interest, and interpret their application in personal and business contexts.; and (4) summarise and interpret data using appropriate statistical measures and apply measurement and geometric principles to solve practical problems..

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) online tests and (2) online final test. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Jake Steed 00080666
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
PWAZ0001 Preparing for University Success
Contact hours
2h asynchronous activities x 14 weeks = 28 hours
1h synchronous tutorial x 14 weeks = 14 hours
7 hours of assessment preparation and self-study per week = 7 hrs x 14 = 98 hours
APPROX Total = 140 hours
Note
This online pathway unit - Maths in Practice is designed to provide flexibility while maintaining meaningful interaction with tutors and peers. Students are required to view a one and a half hours of recorded lectures (for specific units) each week at a time that suits them. In addition, students are required to attend a timetabled one-hour live online tutorial and complete independent pre- and post-tutorial learning activities designed to reinforce understanding, build mathematical skills and support success at university.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.