MATH 151:  Calculus I

 

Instructor:  Steve Hinthorne

Prerequisites: Math 143 or equivalent

 

Material and skills covered:

The prerequisite of intermediate algebra means that the student should have a good working knowledge of algebra and geometry including: linear and quadratic equations and inequalities; properties and graphs of polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions; basic theorems of geometry such as the Pythagorean Theorem, congruence criteria for triangles, properties of similar figures, properties of chords, secants and tangents of circles, fundamental formulas for areas and volumes of two- and three-dimensional figures.

 

Material and skills covered:

Calculus is the study of change and motion and presents the language and concepts needed to analyze these fundamental notions.  These concepts include:  functions, limits, slopes of lines, derivatives, and integrals.

 

A computer software program called Mathematica will be used extensively to help solidify concepts and investigate problems with numerical complexity.  Along with a calculator, this software allows quick graphs, computations with tabular data, and symbol manipulation.

 

To understand the development of the ideas of calculus, students are also required to write a short (8 pages minimum) research paper on the historical development of calculus.    This is a quarter-long project.

 

Skills developed include:

            • Using mathematics to structure our understanding of and investigate

                        questions in the world around us,

            • Using calculus to formulate problems, solve problems, and to  communicate

                        orally and with writing  the solutions  of these problems  to others,

            • Using computers as an integral part of problem solving,

            • Working and learning cooperatively.

 

Methods used:

A typical class will include questions and answers followed by presentation and discussion of new material.  Homework assignments are daily collected and graded and returned the next day (usually).

 

Grade determined by:

Grades are assigned according to the percentage of the total possible points awarded for homework, the research paper, examinations, and participation.

 

Attendance policy:

Your daily participation is vital to the success of this course for yourself as well as your classmates.  Unexcused absences are unacceptable.