The main purpose of Math 1 is to introduce students to differential calculus, while introducing or reviewing concepts from algebra and trigonometry as needed. We will begin with discussions of algebraic concepts and the idea of a function. The exponential and logarithmic functions will then be introduced. Next, we will talk about the limit of a function and the notion of a continuous function. The second half of the class will largely be spent developing the derivative of a function, learning how to calculate it, and studying its properties and applications. In the end, students should understand the derivative and how to compute it, and they should be able to recognize and apply the derivative in novel ways.
In addition to these content goals, this course also provides students with an opportunity to develop
their critical thinking skills. Through a variety of writing exercises, students will improve their
quantitative literacy -- learning how to think like a mathematician and verbally describe mathematics. The course assessments and assignments
will focus on helping students to expand their mathematical reasoning.
Calculus:
Seventh Edition |
The textbook will be available at
Wheelock Books. You can also find used editions online (on Amazon.com, for example), but please check to make sure that the edition matches the one that we are using.
The course grade will be computed as follows:
Assignment Number Points each
Total points
Daily homework 28 (drop 3) 2 50 Weekly homework 9 (drop 1) 15 120 Weekly quiz 6 (drop 1) 24 120 Midterm 2 120 240 Final 1 180 180 Total 710
At the end of the term, we will drop a certain number of assignments (3 daily homework sets, 1 weekly homework set, and 1 quiz). These assignments will not count toward your point total.
Exams and Quizzes: No help may be given or received on exams and quizzes. Both formats are closed book and you may not use your notes, a calculator, or any other electronic device.
Homework (Daily and Weekly): You are welcome to discuss your homework with your classmates, the instructors, and your tutors, but the final result should be your own work. While collaboration can be beneficial, you should not provide or receive complete solutions for problems. Calculators and other computing devices are also allowed, but remember that they will be unavailable on the exams and quizzes!
Students with disabilities enrolled in this course and who may need disability-related classroom and/or exam accommodations are encouraged to make an appointment to see your instructor before the end of the second week of the term. Students requiring disability-related accommodations must register with the Student Accessibility Service office (located in Collis Center). Once SAS has authorized accommodations, students must show the originally signed SAS Services and Consent Form and/or a letter on SAS letterhead to their professor. As a first step, if students have questions about whether they qualify to receive accommodations, they should contact the SAS office. All inquiries and discussions about accommodations will remain confidential.
Some students may wish to take part in religious observances that occur during the academic term. If you have a religious observance that conflicts with your participation in the course, please meet with your instructor before the end of the second week of the term to discuss appropriate accommodations. If further support is required, please contact Nancy Vogele (Nancy.Vogele at dartmouth.edu).
Students who expect to need schedule adjustments for athletic or other extracurricular commitments are similarly encouraged to meet with their instructor as early as possible in the term. Such adjustments are not always possible but are more likely with advanced warning.
Students with other concerns or schedule conflicts are also encouraged to meet with their instructor.