MATH 141Calculus 1A
Determining the rate of change of a function as its dependent variable changes is a key question in many sciences. It is also the basis for differential calculus, which is the first part of mathematical analysis. This course provides a thorough development of differential calculus. It builds on the ideas of functions and limits to define derivatives, and derives rules for computing them. These rules are demonstrated in scientific applications.
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Course details
- Dates
- 24 Feb 2025 to 22 Jun 2025
- Starts
- Trimester 1
- Fees
- NZ$899.40 for
- International fees
- NZ$4,771.80
- Lecture start times
- Monday 10.00am
- Wednesday 10.00am
- Friday 10.00am
- Campus
- Kelburn
- Estimated workload
- Approximately 150 hours or 9.4 hours per week for 16 weeks
- Points
- 15
Entry restrictions
Taught by
School of Mathematics and Statistics—Faculty of Engineering
About this course
This course provides a thorough introduction to the differential calculus and an introduction to the integral calculus. Following a review of coordinate geometry and the use of equations to represent straight lines and circles, we introduce the concept of a function and many important examples including polynomial, rational, trigonometric, exponential and logarithm functions. The idea of a limit is central and leads to considering continuity and differentiability of a function. The definition of a derivative and rules for computing derviatives are deduced. Derivatives are applied to model physical problems. The course concludes by introducing the idea of an integral of a function and we demonstrate the fundamental property that integrals can be calculated using the inverse of differentiation.
As well as developing methods of computation and applications of the calculus, the course focuses on its underlying concepts, the correct use of symbolic representation in mathematics and the importance of providing logical justification for its results and methods.
Course learning objectives
Students who pass this course should be able to:
Demonstrate correct use of mathematical notation in calculus
Define the basic concepts of functions and differential calculus
Apply the techniques of differentiation in theoretical settings and modelling
Reproduce logical arguments justifying rules of differentiation
Demonstrate a basic understanding of definite and indefinite integrals and use anti-differentiation to compute them.
How this course is taught
We've designed this course for in-person study, and to get the most out of it we strongly recommend you attend lectures on campus. In particular, tests and exam, as well as tutorials will only be available in person. Any exceptions for in-person attendance for assessment will be looked at on a case-by-case basis in exceptional circumstances, e.g., through disability services or by approval by the course coordinator.
During the trimester, there will be three lectures per week. Students are expected to attend at least one tutorial per week. Sign-ups for tutorials will be in the first week of lectures using myAllocator. Tutorials start in week two.
Note: The best predictor of success in the course is your engagement with it - attend the lectures, attend tutorials, and do the assignments.
Assessment
- Best 7 of 8 Weekly Assignments Mark: 30%
- 1 x 50-minute Test Mark: 20%
- 2-hour Test Mark: 50%
Assessment dates and extensions
Once you've signed up to this course, you can use to see due dates for assessments and information about extensions.
Mandatory requirements
Find out what you must do to pass this course.
In addition to achieving an overall pass mark of at least 50% students must:
- Score at least 40% on the final test.
If you believe that exceptional circumstances may prevent you from meeting the mandatory course requirements, contact the course coordinator for advice as soon as possible.
Lecture times and rooms
What you’ll need to get
You do not need to get any texts or equipment for this course.
Who to contact
Selected offering
MATH 141
24 Feb–22 Jun 2025
Trimester 1 · CRN 17151