The course: This is Calculus I, Math 221. Each section covers the same material, at roughly the same pace. There will be a final and three midterms. ATTENDANCE AT ALL CLASSES IS REQUIRED - ONLY EXCEPTIONAL CIRCUMSTANCES SUCH AS ILLNESS OR FAMILY EMERGENCY EXCUSES ATTENDANCE.
Prerequisites: You need a good background in algebra and trigonometry, which is usually satisfied by a High School precalculus course or Binghamton University's Math 108. The Mathematics Department administers a Screening Test, which is designed to identify students who do not have adequate preparation for the course. The Screening Test is an absolute prerequisite for Math 221: you must pass it or you will not be allowed to take the course. See the
Screening test home page for details.
Calc Help Room: This room is staffed by some of the instructors and is available for students that need help in calculus. Students can ask questions of any of the instructors there and not just their own instructor. It is open most during business hours (roughly). Follow the link for location and schedule.
The Discovery Program has tutors for various subjects through the Center for Academic Excellence. See the FAQ page for more information.
Syllabus: This is the official course outline. For more details see the course schedule.
Textbook: This page has information about the textbook, supplementary material and the errors in the text.
Tests: Tests in Fall 2008 will be during class time on:
Friday September 19
Friday October 31
Friday December 5
The final will be on Monday December 15 at 7pm
Grading: Here is how grades will be calculated. After the Final has been graded we'll compile a COURSE SCORE for each student, a number, maximum 100. This number is built from the following components:
Of the three tests during the semester, we drop the worst and the other two count 25% each (total 50% for midterms). BUT you must attempt all three tests; otherwise this privilege of dropping the worst test is withdrawn.
The final counts 40%.
Class work determines the other 10% - the details of this may vary by section; the instructor will explain how this is to be adminstered in your section.
Your letter grade will be based on your course score.
Make-ups: Except in extraordinary circumstances approved by the Department there will be no make-ups for mid term tests missed. The policy of dropping the worst test is the only insurance offered to those who miss a test. And note the "privilege withdrawn" statement above: if you are going to miss a test there had better be a good reason discussed with your instructor in advance.
Tests from some past semesters:
Final Exam: What to expect on the final exam.
The archives: Copies of the Math 221 home page for previous semesters.