02+Welcome+Letter

Welcome to Survey of Calculus!

Calculus is the branch of mathematics that deals with the rate of change in a quantity in relation to another quantity. There are two main branches – Integral Calculus and Differential Calculus. In this course we will be introduced to the concepts of calculus and be prepared to continue studying the subject in post-secondary school.

To succeed in Calculus, you need to have a strong foundation in the topics introduced in Algebra 1, Algebra 2 and PreCalculus. Specifically, you will need to be familiar with the real numbers, exponents, radicals, factoring, the distance and midpoint formulas, quadratic equations, trigonometric functions, complex numbers, conics, matrices, graph theory, polar coordinates, sequences, series, and even some probability topics.

Unlike earlier mathematics courses, calculus does not involve formulas and theorems. Rather, calculus problems are solved by applying the skills you have previously learned. Therefore, a thorough understanding of prerequisite topics is critical. You cannot fall behind, and you cannot skip over any parts of the course. You’ve been hearing for years that mathematics knowledge is cumulative, but you might not have really believed it. Be ready to change that view!

I am here to help you, but we have to work together to insure your success. The course is fairly fast paced, so please be sure to work on assignments daily. My expectations for students in this course are high, in keeping with the advanced level of the topics. Please be sure that you understand how to use the graphing calculator, MathType, and Geometer’s Sketchpad. We might also use other software from time to time.

I will provide you with lectures, examples, videos, links to supplementary sites, and timely feedback. In return, I expect your work to be thorough, neatly done, and submitted on time. I ask that you answer the questions in the Policies assignment; this will serve as a checklist for you to be sure that you have everything you need to get started in the course.

Please don’t hesitate to contact me, and don’t let yourself become frustrated. I am usually in the office by 6:30 AM; this is a great time to meet since the phones are not ringing and the office is quiet. However, I understand that not everyone is a morning person, so I will do my best to accommodate your schedule as well. In prior years I worked in the Homework Help room in the evenings, so I might not be able to meet late in the day on those days that I am working.

I’m glad you have decided to take on this challenge, and wish you success in all you do!