Precalculus
The Fine Print
Course Goals
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Describe characteristics and properties of complex functions both graphically and algebraically
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Recognize and evaluate the behavior of trigonometric functions using the unit circle
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Learn and manipulate trigonometric identities to solve complex equations
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Understand the relationship between linear equations and matrices in order to solve systems of linear equations
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Explore topics of analytical geometry graphically
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Use standard equations to graphically represent the 4 types of conic sections
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Demonstrate the ability to evaluate limits of sequences, series and functions
The course will cover the following topics:
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Characteristics of complex functions such as domain/range, increasing/decreasing, minimums/maximums and asymptotes
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Factoring polynomials using synthetic division
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Properties of complex numbers
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Modeling logarithmic and exponential functions to study topics such as earthquake magnitudes, compound interest and population growth
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Trigonometry topics such as trigonometric functions, the Unit Circle, right angles, and trigonometric identities to study topics such as linear speed and harmonic motion
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Properties of vectors such as finding the dot product, cross product and triple scalar product
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Solving systems of linear equations algebraically and by use of matrices to study topics such as cryptography
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Proofs by mathematical induction
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Introduction to probability including use of the Binomial Theorem, Pascal’s triangle and permutations
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Exploration of conic sections including circles, parabolas, ellipses, and hyperbolas,
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Graphing and exploring properties of parametric and polar equations
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An introduction to Calculus through the evaluation of limits
Prerequisites
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Students must have completed the equivalent of one of these high school math sequences: Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra II/Trigonometry or Integrated Math 1, 2, 3.
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Are you ready? Take a Self Assessment Test.
Course Details
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See the FAQ for complete dates, times, and breaks.
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See the FAQ for CA charters that designate this class as a-g approved
Instructor Demo
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See a ZOOM Demo: Ashley Porter demonstrates her instructional approach.
Course Resources
Textbook
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Precalculus, 10th edition, by Ron Larson
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Hard-copy textbook loaned free through Blue Tent OnLoan
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Look inside: a preview
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ISBN: 978-1337271073
Web Resources
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WebAssign: ($50) Homework platform ordered through instructor
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GeoGebra – A free application for students to visualize characteristics of functions
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IXL - an online practice and diagnostic app (cost is included in tuition)
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Desmos.com – A free online graphing calculator program
Calculator
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Required: TI-84 series
Technical Resources
We use ZOOM for live meetings. U.S. and international students need:
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A reliable internet connection
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A computer with a web-cam
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Recommended: a headset with a microphone (but your built-in computer audio and microphone will work if needed)
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Requested: students who attend classes live are asked to keep their webcams on during class