MA 171, Calculus A

Course Description and Goals

Calculus A is the first course in a three-course sequence in calculus, primarily intended for students in science and engineering. Specific topics include

the basic concepts and algebra of limits,
the basic concepts and techniques of differentiation,
applications of the derivative, particularly to related rate problems, optimization problems, and graphs of functions
the study of families of transcendental functions including exponential and logarithmic functions
numerical approximations including Newton's method and first order approximations
basic concepts of the definite integral
basic concepts of the indefinite integral and antiderivatives
the fundamental theorem of calculus
applications of the integral to area and distance
the use of the Maple computer algebra system

Goals of the course include

a basic understanding of the special language, notation, and point of view of calculus
the ability to solve basic computational problems involving derivatives and integrals
an understanding of concepts from complementary points of view (algebraic, geometric, numerical, procedural)
the ability to model and solve basic calculus problems in science and engineering
a basic sense of the history of calculus and its central importance in science
an improved ability to read, write, speak, and think in mathematical terms

Alabama General Studies Curriculum

MA 171 is an AGSC approved course; the standard AGSC number is Math 125.

Prerequisites

MA 113, Precalculus Trigonometry with a grade of C or better, or MA 115, Precalculus Algebra and Trigonometry with a grade of C or better, or placement

Credit

4 Semester Hours

Course Materials

The text is Essential Calculus, Early Transcendentals, by James Stewart, published by Brooks/Cole. The computer algebra system Maple is used in this course.

Grading System

This course is graded A, B, C, D, F. The grade typically depends on a combination of class tests, homework, Maple assignments, quizzes, and a comprehensive final exam.