Mathematics with Calculus 3
MAC3 Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Damien Galvan.
Prerequisites12 credits in MAC2 or 5AMA including the two externals Algebra and Calculus. If you do not meet this requirement you will need HOD approval.
Calculus is a branch of mathematics which helps us understand changes between values that are related by a function. For example, if you had one formula telling how much money you got every day, calculus would help you understand related formulas like how much money you have in total, and whether you are getting more money or less than you used to. All these formulas are functions of time, and so that is one way to think of calculus — studying functions of time.
There are two different types of calculus. Differential calculus divides things into small (different) pieces and tells us how they change from one moment to the next, while integral calculus joins (integrates) the small pieces together and tells us how much of something is made, overall, by a series of changes. Calculus is used in many different areas such as
Calculus is the mathematical study of continuous change, in the same way that geometry is the study of shape and algebra is the study of generalisations of arithmetic operations.
The Level 3 Calculus course is designed for students interested in physics, astronomy, biology, engineering, economics, architecture, medicine and sociology.
The course focuses on the following topics;
•Trigonometry (Internal)
•Complex numbers (External)
•Differentiation (External)
•Integration (External)
Course Overview
Term 1
This classes will focus on a revision of algebra skills and an exploration of 'Real Numbers'. Trigonometry is studied in the second part of the term.
Term 2
This second part of the term covers the second part of algebra and the concept of 'Complex Numbers' before focussing on 'Differentiation'.
Term 3
The focus turns to the externally assessed standards. The first one covered is applying 'integration' methods in solving problems. We then revise all three externals 'Complex Numbers', 'Differentiation' and 'Integration' for school exams late in the term.
Term 4
This term all students will focus on revision for external assessments based on their results from the school exams.
Pathway
Calculus - University and NZ Scholarship
Contributions and Equipment/StationeryIn-class/at home workbooks and study guides required during the year cost approximately $20.