Natural Science 0243 - Calculus I

This course introduces students to fundamental calculus concepts. The course prioritizes mathematical thinking, underlying concepts, and clear communication while de-emphasizing symbolic manipulation and rote exercises. We will apply the ideas of calculus such as derivatives, related rates, optimization, and integrals in a variety of contexts including epidemiology, ecology, and environmental sustainability. Students will use computers routinely to carry out calculations, experiment with parameter choices, and create informative graphs. Coding experience is not assumed, but some comfort with coding will be a plus. While there are no formal mathematical prerequisites, students should be comfortable with college level algebra. Keywords:Calculus, mathematics, modeling

Environments and Change Lab/Materials fee: We will use an online homework system that costs $25.00 per student. Students should expect to spend 6-8 hours weekly on work and preparation outside of class time.