One of the most essential pieces of math tech 1 is an introductory but comprehensive overview of algebraic principles. This includes, most importantly, being able to use variables and solve for them in an equation. This skill is especially useful in many trades, like carpentry. In addition, students will learn about linear equations and how to graph them on an x-y plane. In general, because of the math tech course's emphasis, these concepts will focus on applications to trades, rather than simply provide a theoretical framework.
Statistics and measurement are extremely useful to prospective carpenters, plumbers and other skilled technical workers. Students in a math tech course will learn about concepts like decimals and how to appropriately round them to a specified level. In general, statistical analysis in a math tech 1 class will remain quite simple, without going far beyond means, medians and modes, and learning how to interpret graphical information such as a bar chart. Measurement concepts, however, are highly relevant to math tech and students will learn more about these topics. This includes understanding how to transform a measurement to a new measurement, such as between inches and feet.
Trade professionals use geometry on a daily basis. A math tech course, unlike a high school math course, will focus less on proofs and more on concepts of practical use. Measuring areas, volumes and perimeters will be covered in an introductory math tech course. Numerous different shapes and how to use them will be analyzed. Using fractions and understanding how to factor equations will also be covered here. Ninety degree triangle trigonometry, which is often relevant in fields like carpentry, will also be highlighted in this course.
In addition to more practical concepts, math tech will also ensure that students have a firm understanding and are "math literate." This primarily covers understanding how to read mathematical information. Topics of interest might include exponents, which students will learn how to use. Likewise, students will learn about radicals and how to use them mathematically. A math tech course will also focus on concepts like real numbers and what they mean, and the difference between an integer and a non-integer. Quadratic and binary notation will also be covered in the course.