Math 1300 Distance: Tips for Assignment 1

Published: Sat, 01/12/13


 
Did you read my tips on how to do well in Math 1300 Distance?  If not, here is a link to those important suggestions:
How to do Well in Math 1300 Distance 
 
Tips for Assignment 1
Even if you are not taking the distance course, I think it is very useful for all Math 1500 students to attempt these hand-in assignments.  In general, the assignments can be quite demanding and really force you to solidify your math skills.  However, the fact is that the distance course covers the topics in a different order from the classroom lecture sections, so I would not advise classroom students to look at this assignment until after the midterm exam.
 
Here is a link where you can download a copy of Assignment 1:
Math 1300 Distance Assignment 1 (Jan 2013) 
 
Note that you need to study Lesson 1 (Systems of Linear Equations) and Lesson 9 (Vectors) from my Linear Algebra & Vector Geometry book to prepare for this assignment.  I think you should find this assignment fairly straightforward if you do thoroughly study and do all the Practise Problems I give you in Lesson 9.  However, make sure that you study Lesson 1 of my book first.  It is an important review of key skills you will need throughout the course and assignments.
 
Questions 1 to 4 should not be too difficult if you have studied Lesson 9.
 
Question 5 is a bit of a workout, but follow their advice and draw the graph to help you visualize the problem.  You will also find a similar example towards the end of my Practie Problems.  Ask yourself, "Why did they have you find points Q and R?"  Hint: the length of the appropriate projection vector will give you the distance you seek in part (e).
 
Question 6 is basically asking you to find the x-, y- and z-intercepts in part (a).  Note, to find an intercept, you set the other coordinates equal to 0.  For example, the x-intercept occurs when y and z both equal 0.