GOALS OF THIS COURSE: Math 131 is a calculus course primarily intended for students in the life or social sciences, such as Biology, Pharmacy, and Economics. It is different (but not easier) than the four-credit calculus course, Math 141, designed for students who intend to take more advanced math, such as engineering, computer science, and mathemactics majors. The main emphasis will on the practical interpretation of calculus in numerical, graphical, and algebraic terms, although important theoretical concepts will also be covered. The main topics of the course are functions, differentiation, integration and applications.
EXPECTATIONS: We expect that you will give this course 7-9 hours a week of your undivided attention, in addition to your class time. This is an approximate figure of course, but don't assume that you can spend less time than this and still get a grade you'll like. We also expect that you will ATTEND YOUR CLASS.
Tips for success: Read the textbook. You may not be used to reading mathematics texts, but you will be actively encouraged to read this one. By reading the text before class you will have a better chance of making good use of your time in class. Don't worry if you don't understand everything. Ask questions in class and read the material again later.
Do the suggested problems. An important purpose of the problems is to make you think through and master the ideas of the subject so that you can confidently apply your knowledge in new situations. It is essential that you devote adequate time attempting to solve each assigned problem. Discipline yourself not to check the solution manual too quickly, be willing to spend an occasional half hour or more on a challenging problem. You may learn a great deal from honest hard work on a problem, even if you don't succeed in solving it. Read the text material before working on the problems.
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Students who require accommodations and who have
documentation from Disability Services (874-2098)
should make arrangements with their instructor
as soon as possible.
Exams and Evaluation
There will be three evening exams (6.00 -- 7.30pm)
given during the semester
outside of class.
Their dates will be posted on the this web page
and announced in class as soon as available.
All sections will take these exams.
The final exam will be scheduled at a common time for all sections.
The final exam is a comprehensive exam covering matrial from
the whole semester.
The exams will reflect the variety of the homework problems.
Do not expect to be asked merely to solve homework problems with
the numbers changed. The best way to prepare for the exams,
and to develop confidence in your ability to solve problems,
is to work on the homework problems as suggested.
GRADING: Your grade will be determined out of a
possible of 650 points:
three common exams, 100 points for each exam
final exam 200 points
homework, quizes, or classwork 150 points