Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University

South La Union Campus

College of Arts and Sciences
General Education Department
Agoo, La Union

GECC 103 – Mathematics in the Modern World

First Semester, SY 2020 – 2021

COURSE GUIDE

Introduction

Mathematics plays a vital role in our modern world today. Every day,
people engage in various activities that require the utilization and
understanding of relevant mathematical concepts. Mathematics allows people
to develop a better understanding and interpretation of available information.
Learning and understanding mathematics will help you think critically
and creatively. The abstract nature and the problem solving components of the
subject may seem difficult to master. However, the skills which one can derive
from diligently attaining conceptual understanding and mastery of the process
of problem solving can be applied in modelling and deriving solutions to real-
life situations and challenges.
Mathematics in the Modern World (MMW), as a general education course
in higher education, bridges the connection between the abstract nature of
mathematics and real-life. Mathematical concepts are discussed and illustrated
using examples found in real-life contexts. Also, the nature and characteristics
of various things found in nature are described using appropriate mathematical
ideas. The subjects cover four main topics – the nature of mathematics, the
language of mathematics, problem solving and reasoning, and data
management. The discussions, examples, and activities are contextualized to
help you explicitly recognize how mathematical concepts are translated and
integrated into your daily routines and activities.
Gaining appreciation of the importance of the subject requires attaining
a deeper understanding of the nature and language of mathematics and
recognizing its essential applications to various fields and situations. This
course, through the modules prepared for you, will guide you through in
obtaining conceptual understanding, developing critical thinking and problem-
solving skills, and recognizing the essential applications of mathematics to the
modern world.

Course Description

This course deals with nature of mathematics, appreciation of its

practical, intellectual, and aesthetic dimensions, and application of
mathematical tools in daily life.
 Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University
South La Union Campus
College of Arts and Sciences
General Education Department
Agoo, La Union

The course begins with an introduction to the nature of mathematics as

an exploration of patterns (in nature and the environment) and as an
application of inductive and deductive reasoning. By exploring these topics,
students are encouraged to go beyond the typical understanding of
mathematics as merely a set of formulas but as a source of aesthetics in
patterns of nature, for example, and a rich language in itself (and of science)
governed by logic and reasoning.

The course then proceeds to survey ways in which mathematics provides

a tool for understanding and dealing with various aspects of present-day living,
such as managing personal finances, appreciating geometric designs, and
minimizing cost while maximizing limited resources. These aspects will provide
opportunities for actually doing mathematics in a broad range of exercises that
bring out the various dimensions of mathematics as a way of knowing, and test
the students’ understanding and capacity (CMO No. 20, series of 2013).

Course Outcomes

After completing this course, you are expected to:

Cognitive:
1. Discuss and argue about the nature of mathematics, what it is, how it is
expressed, represented, and used;
2. Use different types of reasoning to justify statements and arguments
made about mathematics and mathematical concepts;
3. Discuss the language and symbols of mathematics;
4. Explain the use of mathematics in making financial-related decisions;
5. Illustrate mathematics as a relevant tool in solving practical problems
in various aspects and endeavors in life;
6. Describe Filipino culture and arts using concepts in geometry;

Psychomotor:
7. Analyze patterns in nature, arts and designs using mathematical
concepts;
8. Use a variety of statistical tools to process and manage numerical data;
9. Utilize appropriate strategies and reasoning in solving word problems;
10. Use mathematics in other areas such as finance, health and medicine,
business, environment, arts and design, and recreation;

Affective:
11. Appreciate the nature and uses of mathematics in everyday life;
12. Affirm honesty and integrity in the application of mathematics to
various human endeavors.
 Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University
South La Union Campus
College of Arts and Sciences
General Education Department
Agoo, La Union

Competencies

Through this course, you are expected to develop the following

competencies /skills:

1. Analytical and critical thinking skills

2. Computational and problem-solving skills
3. Logical Reasoning
4. Assessment skills
5. Communication skills
6. Innovativeness and productivity
7. Lifelong learning skills
8. Adaptability and responsiveness

Course Content

This course has four main modules. Each module is divided into lessons.
The content of the course is divided as follows:

Module 1 The Nature of Mathematics: Mathematics in our World

Lesson 1 Patterns and Numbers in Nature and the World
Lesson 2 The Fibonacci Sequence
Lesson 3 Mathematics in our World

Module 2 Mathematical Language and Symbols

Lesson 1 Variables
Lesson 2 The Language of Sets
Lesson 3 The Language of Relations and Functions

Module 3 Problem-solving and Reasoning

Lesson 1 Deductive and Inductive Reasoning
Lesson 2 Strategies in Problem Solving

Module 4 Data Management

Lesson 1 Measures of Central Tendency
Lesson 2 Measures of Dispersion
Lesson 3 Normal Distribution
Lesson 4 Odds and Chances
 Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University
South La Union Campus
College of Arts and Sciences
General Education Department
Agoo, La Union

Approaches and Methodology

Modular learning is the primary approach to instructional delivery and

learning modality to be implemented in this course. The modules in
Mathematics in the Modern World are specifically designed and purposively
prepared to maximize the potential of independent learning and self-paced
learning. Various relevant and appropriate principles in instructional materials
development were carefully considered and implemented in the development
of the lessons.
The modules integrated different pedagogical approaches such as
learner-centered, inquiry-based, constructivist, reflective, differentiated, and
integrative to enable you to satisfy the intended course outcomes, and at the
same time, facilitate the development of creativity and critical thinking skills.

Learning Guide

Modular learning requires you to study the modules and work on the
activities independently. While modular learning allows you to manage your
own learning, it is expected that you commit yourself to satisfying the
requirements of the course, including the submissions of outputs based on set
schedules.

Modular learning is challenging. The following strategies may help you

deal with the course effectively:

1. Demonstrate a positive attitude. Your attitude towards the modular

learning modality is important for you to successfully satisfy the
requirements of your subjects. Highlight the positive aspect of this
modality. Remember, learning is activated only by you.
2. Choose a study area. Your goal is to find a comfortable, secure,
well-lighted, and well-ventilated place that is free from distractions.
The place should be convenient and should conform to your schedule.
3. Manage your time. When managing your time, consider the degree of
difficulty of the task/s, the arrangement of activities, and the dates
of submission.
4. Set goals. Map out your day-to-day schedule in detail. Make a daily
to-do list according to your class schedules. If necessary, break down
the tasks into smaller units.
5. Participate actively. The class Facebook page and group chat can be
maximized to facilitate discussion. You are encouraged to answer
questions posted by your classmates through your class Facebook
page or sent through your class group chat. Also, a question to
 Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University
South La Union Campus
College of Arts and Sciences
General Education Department
Agoo, La Union

encourage discussion and exchange of ideas will be posted by me in

your Facebook page. You are required to respond to the question by
indicating your answer as a comment. Or, a post that encourages you
to ask questions will be posted. You may indicate your concerns or
questions as a comment to the post. Observe proper netiquette.
6. Work independently. Work on the activities independently. You can
use various resources to deepen your understanding about the topic
or concepts. You can also utilize learning resources to answer the
activities.
7. Collaborate, if necessary. While modular learning is highly
independent, you are encouraged to seek help from your classmates
or from anyone. Remember, do not copy your classmate’s work! Also,
do not let others answer the activities for you.
8. Submit on time. In all the activities of the modules, submit your
outputs on time. Schedules of submission are provided below. Hard
copies (printed and/or written answers) of answers can be sent
through JRS or LBC (address provided below), or meet ups at the
campus main gate. You have to inform me in advance regarding the
schedule of meet ups.
Ernesto N. Villanueva
DMMMSU-SLUC
College of Arts and Sciences
Agoo, La Union
On the other hand, soft copies (encoded through MS Word and/or
pictures of outputs saved as one file) can be sent as an email or a
private message.

Outputs can also be submitted during the scheduled face-to-face

class that is nearest to the indicated schedule of submission.

9. Submit quality outputs. Take note that your outputs serve as bases
for giving scores. Please make sure that your answers are concise,
substantial, and relevant. Also, don’t plagiarize. A plagiarized work
will automatically receive a zero score.
10. Take the exams. Midterm and final examinations will be
administered via Google Classroom. For those who have limited
resources, please inform me earlier so that we can arrange the setup
for your examinations.
11. Ask questions. When you encounter difficulties, do not hesitate to
inform your teacher about your concerns. You can send me an email
through ernestovillanueva@dmmmsu.edu.ph, send a private message
(Ernesto Villanueva), or you can post your question through your class
Facebook page or GC. When you send through email or private
 Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University
South La Union Campus
College of Arts and Sciences
General Education Department
Agoo, La Union

message, do not forget to: introduce yourself, indicate your course

and class section, and your concern. Please take note that all
concerns will be answered during TTH, 2:00-3:30.

NOTE: The TWO BEFORE ME RULE is applicable. That is, make sure
that you have sought help first from your classmates or have read
various resources before sending me your concerns. You can only
send questions after implementing all means that you know and yet
no definite answers were derived.

12. Do not post your issues and concerns in your social media
accounts. The social media is not the proper avenue to raise your
concerns and issues regarding your subject. You are expected to
practice proper netiquette at all times.

Academic Honesty and Personal Integrity

As a student of the university, you are expected to adhere to the rules

and regulations specified in the student handbook. Therefore, along the course
of this subject, it is expected that your academic and non-academic work is
authentic and respectful of intellectual property. Academic honesty and
personal integrity must be observed at all times. Ignorance of the standards
related to academic honesty and student integrity is not an excuse for
dishonesty and plagiarism.

Grading System

Class Standing 60%

Answers to activities in the Modules
Participation in the class facebook page
Performance tasks/ Problem sets
Midterm/Final Examination 40%
Total 100%
 Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University
South La Union Campus
College of Arts and Sciences
General Education Department
Agoo, La Union

Schedules and Submission

Module Schedule Submission

Module 1 Sept. 6 -Sept. 21, 2021 Sept. 21, 2021
Module 2 Sept. 22 – Oct. 8, 2021 Oct. 8, 2021
Midterm Examination Oct. 13-15, 2021 Oct. 13-15, 2021
Module 3 Oct. 18 – Nov. 8, 2021 Nov. 8, 2021
Module 4 Nov. 9 – Dec. 3, 2021 Dec. 3, 2021
Project-Making/Problem December 6-17, 2021 December 17, 2021
Sets/Performance Task
Final Examination Dec. 20-22, 2021 Dec. 20-22, 2021

References:

Adam, John A. Mathematics in Nature: Modeling Patterns in the

Natural World Adam, John A. A Mathematical Nature Walk

Aufmann, R. etal. Mathematical Excursions (Chaps. 1, 3, 4, 5, 8, 11, and 13) 3rd

Ed (International Edition).

COMAP Inc. For All Practical Purposes, Introduction to Contemporary

Mathematics (2nd ed.)

Eisma, D. et. al. Skillbook in Mathematics in the Modern World. (2018).

Fisher, Carol Burns. The Language of Mathematics (from One Mathematical Cat,
Please! by Carol Burns Fisher)

Fisher, Carol Burns. The Language and Grammar of Mathematics Hersh,

R. What is Mathematics Really? (Chaps. 4 & 5)

Johnson and Mowry. Mathematics, A Practical Odyssey (Chap. 12)

Moser and Chen. A Student’s Guide to Coding and Information Theory

Stewart, Ian. Nature’s Numbers

Vistro-Yu, C. Geometry: Shapes, Patterns and Designs (A chapter for the new
ed. of the Math 12 textbook for Ateneo de Manila University).

VIDEO
https://vimeo.com/9953368
 Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University
South La Union Campus
College of Arts and Sciences
General Education Department
Agoo, La Union

Suggested readings and References

Akiyama and Ruiz. A Day’s Adventure in Math Wonderland Aufmann et al.

Mathematical Excursions (Chap. 2)

Averbach and Chein. Problem Solving Through Recreational Mathematics

Enzensberger. The Number Devil

Johnson and Mowry. Mathematics, A Practical Odyssey (Chaps. 1 and 4)

Nocheseda. Palaspas

Stewart, lan. Professor Stewart’s Cabinet of Mathematical Curiosities Sobecki,

Bluman, and Schirck-Matthews. Math in Our World

VIDEO
http://www.exploratorium.edu/ronh/secret/secret-html

Prepared by:

ERNESTO N. VILLANUEVA
Faculty, CAS-GED