MAT 123  INTRODUCTION  TO  CALCULUS

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Course Description

MAT 123 is designed to be a thorough preparation for the calculus sequences at Stony Brook University (MAT 125-127, MAT 131-132, and AMS 151-161). Its primary objective is strengthening students' grasp of the mathematical tools needed for calculus: functions, graphs, polynomials, exponentials, logarithms, trigonometry, and their applications. It begins with an intensive review of these topics in precalculus and finishes with an introduction to limits and derivatives - the first fundamental concepts of calculus. Students in MAT 123 must have received a score of 3 or better on the Mathematics Placement Examination (MPE) administered by the Department of Mathematics to all incoming freshmen. If you received a lower MPE score, take courses such as MAP 101 and MAP 103 (non-credit refresher course) to improve your performance on the MPE.

Textbook

The required textbook is Precalculus Essentials (Second Edition) by Robert Blitzer & MAT 123 Calculus Supplement by Hughes-Hallett, Gleason, et al.

Course Material

A (rough) schedule (following 2nd edition of the book) is given detailing the sections to be covered in each lecture. You are encouraged to have a look at the corresponding sections before coming to class. Most of the material in the text book and the supplement will be covered in this course.

Class Details

MWTh  9:30 - 11:45 am
Lecture Hall Harriman 111


Homework

Homework problems will be assigned on Wednesdays and will be due the next Wednesday unless mentioned otherwise. You are required to do all the assigned problems. Solutions should be written neatly and clearly and homeworks should be properly stapled, no exceptions. Selected problems will be graded. It is also recommended that you work additional problems to increase your understanding. If you do not understand how to solve a certain problem, get help from your instructor, your classmates, or from tutors in the Math Learning Center. You are encouraged to study and discuss homework problems with others from the class, but please write your solutions yourself.

Quizzes

There will be one in-class quiz every week throughout the session.

Office Hours

Mon 1:00-3:00 pm @MLC, Thu 1:00-3:00 pm @2-112

Grading

The final grade for this class will be computed from your final exam score, mid term score, homework and quizzes weighted by the following amounts:

Quizzes             10%       Weekly quizzes
Homework       20%        Due each Wednesday (except for HW 5 & 6 - see schedule), starting the second week of classes
Mid term          30%        July 30, 9:30 - 11:45 am
Final exam        40%        August 17, 9:30 - 11:45 am

The grader for the course is Yinghua Li.   

Important : There will be an in-class MID TERM (JULY 30 - MONDAY) and FINAL (AUGUST 17 - FRIDAY). PRACTICE PROBLEM SETS and SOLUTIONS have been put up. MID TERM SOLUTIONS have also been put up. Check out the links in the homework section. There will be no make-ups for missed homework and quizzes. It is your responsibility to arrange your schedule to be able to take the exams at the scheduled times and not miss the quizzes. Books, notes etc. are not allowed during exams. If you need to bring a backpack etc. to an exam, you must place it, all pockets and flaps closed in plain sight of the proctors.

Calculators

A graphical calculator is a good learning tool because it allows you to visualize and analyze functions as well make numerical calculations. However calculator proficiency is not the point. Calculators will usually not be essential and it is recommended to try solving your homework without the aid of calculators. Basic graphical calculators is allowed as long as it doesn't implement computer algebra. The class policy regarding calculators will be made clear in class.

Extra Help

The Math Learning Center is located in Room S-240A in the Mathematics Building, Floor S. MLC hours are Monday through Thursday 11-7. It is staffed by experienced mathematics tutors, including professors, graduate students, and advanced undergraduate students. Students may drop in, without an appointment. Your recitation instructor will hold at least one office hour per week at the Math Learning Center. Check out the Math Learning Center website for more information.

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Students with Disabilities

If you have a physical, psychological, medical or learning disability that may impact your course work, please contact Disability Support Services, ECC (Educational Communications Center) Building, room 128, (631) 632-6748. They will determine with you what accommodations are necessary and appropriate. All information and documentation is confidential. Students requiring emergency evacuation are encouraged to discuss their needs with their professors and Disability Support Services. For procedures and information, go to the following web site: http://www.sunysb.edu/ehs/fire/disabilities.shtml