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CURRICULUM PROGRAM: Advanced Placement
COURSE TITLE: AP Calculus BC-DL*
CALENDAR YEAR: 2012-2013
GRADE LEVEL: 11-12
CODE: MAC6130T
TYPE: GM,AP
CREDITS:
COURSE LENGTH: 36 weeks
SUGGESTED PREPARATION:
Algebra I,
Algebra II,
Geometry,
Math Analysis
About the Program:
AP Calculus BC provides a deeper understanding of the fundamental concepts and methods of single-variable calculus developed in AP Calculus AB. There is a continued emphasis on calculus applications and techniques, with the use of multiple representations including graphic, numeric, analytic, algebraic, and verbal and written responses. Technology is an integral part of the course and includes the use of graphing calculators, computers, and data analysis software. The College Board requires the use of graphing calculators for this course.
Though our system has an open enrollment policy, students should understand that this course is designed to be a fourth-year mathematics course, and the equivalent of a year-long, college-level course in single variable calculus. The course requires a solid foundation of topics in advanced algebra, geometry, trigonometry, analytic geometry, and elementary functions. AP Calculus BC is an extension of AP Calculus AB, and provides the equivalent of a second course in a college calculus sequence. Teaching strategies include collaborative small-group work, pairs engaged in data analysis, whole-group presentations, peer-to-peer discussions, and an integration of technology when appropriate. All aspects of progress in the course are measured using multiple methods such as authentic, performance, observational, and assessment for learning (formative); group and individual projects, student presentations, and assessment of learning (summative). Students are expected to take the AP Calculus BC Exam at the end of this course.
Major Concepts/Content: AP Calculus BC is a college-level course which differs from a high school calculus course in terms of depth of coverage and time commitments for study. The content is organized to emphasize major topics which include the following: (1) functions, graphs, and limits; (2) derivatives, (3) integrals, and (4) polynomial approximations and series. These topics are detailed in the AP Calculus BC course description, which is available at AP Central.
Course Objectives:
Course Philosophy: Understanding change is the basis of this course. The study of the concept of the derivative in calculus is the formal study of mathematical change. A key component of the course is fluency in the use of multiple representations that include graphic, numeric, analytic, algebraic, and verbal and written responses. The course is more than a collection of topics; it is a coherent focused curriculum that develops a broad range of calculus concepts and a variety of methods and real-world applications. These include practical applications of integrals to model biological, physical, and economic situations. Although the development of techniques and fluency with algebraic symbolism to represent problems is important, it is not a primary focus of the course. Rather, the course emphasizes differential and integral calculus for functions of a single variable through the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.