Calculus I

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About the course

This is the first course in the calculus sequence. You will be introduced to the concept of limit using three approaches: graphical, numerical, and analytical. The notion of limit is then used to define the slope of the tangent line to a curve at a point which in turn leads to the more general concept of the derivative of a function. Three-fourths of the course deals with the study of derivatives of functions and their applications such as graphing, related rates, optimization, and numerical techniques. This branch of calculus is often referred to as differential calculus. The last fourth of the course introduces you to Riemann sums, area under curves, and integration. This branch of calculus is often referred to as integral calculus, and would be dealt with in greater detail in the next course in the sequence.

How to use this site

This site has been developed as a supplement to our calculus I course. All relevant course materials such as syllabus, assignments, practice exams, solutions to exam questions, etc. will be posted here for easy access. Additionally, I have compiled some links that would be helpful in mastering the course material. There are sites that allow you to work on problems interactively, and there are others where you can read about certain concepts and study examples. For those who are interested in a historical perspective, there is a wonderful history of mathematics site. Please visit these sites often and come with questions to class for discussions. To access these links, click on Links on the top menu.

We will also be meeting online to discuss the course material and to help answer any questions you might have. I will post specific discussion topics but you are welcome to ask any questions about the course material. These discussions will be conducted on the LaGuardia Blackboard site. The discussion area can be accessed by clicking here.