MA 121

Calculus I

Mark Parker

T Th, 11:00 - 12:15, Simperman 110

Introduction

Welcome to Math 121! This is a first course in calculus for the student of the social, behavioral, and life sciences. Calculus is the study of change, a useful notion when one would like to model an epidemic or the motion of blood through the vascular system. The concept of mathematical modeling will be stressed with an emphasis on the use of technology to solve real-world problems. To assist us on this quest, students are required to have calculators with symbolic manipulation capabilities, such as the TI-89, TI-92+, or TI-Voyage 200.

As we begin our journey of discover, we will use the concept of discrete dynamical systems to introduce modeling and to provide a review of functions using multiple representations - symbolic, graphic, and numeric. Using examples drawn from the life and physical sciences, we will begin on an applications oriented study of the principle concepts encountered in the differential and integral calculus when applied to a function of a single variable.

Text

Modeling the Dynamics of Life: Calculus and Probability for Life Scientists

Frederick R. Adler

Brooks/Cole Publishing Company

Grading

Your grade will translate to a letter grade as follows :

• A 90% or better
• B 80% or better
• C 70% or better
• D 60% or better
• F otherwise