1. Website: www.fcusd.org/vdlhs
AP Calculus
Mr. Peterson & Mr. Xiong or
Phone: ext
Website:

2. What is Calculus?
A systematic method for solving problems about systems that change.
A language for describing dynamic systems.
A collection of ideas based on infinite processes and limits.

3. Big Ideas of Calculus
Limits
Differential
Calculus
Integral
Calculus

4. Course Expectations
The rigor of the course will be same as a college credit course.
Expectations:
About 1-2 hours homework/study time daily.
The highest of work ethics: what you put in is what you get out.
Multiple Choice and Free Response Exams will requires students to apply their knowledge of calculus to new topics.
This is a demanding course. Problems require extensive application to new ideas with material in class. Think outside the box.

5. Calculus Students
Should be able to communicate mathematics and explain solutions to problems both verbally and in written sentences.
Students must always Justify and explain their reasoning.
Must have a strong background knowledge of geometry/algebra II/ Pre-Calculus.

6. Why Take AP Calculus? Desire for a Challenge in Math.
Looks great on college applications.
You discover math in application and really why we study things like lines or area.
Can find volumes of virtually any object of any shape(Important for Engineers).
Demonstrate a higher level thinker.
Become part of an elite group

7. Why Take AP Calculus Cont.
Pulled directly from the AP Calculus Website

8. Daily Materials: Notebook
Bring the following to class with you every day:
 Line paper / Graph Paper
 Pencil/ Color Pens/pencil / highlighters / rulers
 3-ring binder / notebook
 Whiteboard marker ( dry erase marker)
 Graphing Calculator (mandatory). TI–83, TI–84 or TI–89
Notebook

9. There are no Test Re-Takes
Weighted Grades
15% formative
50% test
35% final exam
Assessment
Formative
Summative
Occur during the unit to help students identify strengths and weaknesses
Examples: Homework & Quizzes
Occur at the end of the unit to identify what concepts the student has mastered
Examples: Tests & Final Exams
There are no Test Re-Takes

10. Practice Makes Perfect
Expect Daily Homework/homework quizzes.
Check Website for notes
On days homework has not been assigned, students should review their learning targets, vocabulary, and previous assignments.
Students who study throughout the chapter are more successful on assessments.

11. All Students are expected to take the AP Calculus AB or BC exam
AP Exam Date : TBA
For more information on AP Exam fees and fee reductions visit:

12. Those who know the calculus
will be the ones who choose which problems will be solved in this generation, whether for good or for evil.
Calculus is beautiful- Awesomeness!

13. Summer Work Here is the link to the summer assignment.
AP Calculus Summer Assignment
This is due the 1st day of class. You may be tested on these concepts at the beginning of the course.
Successful calculus students have strong knowledge in Algebra II/ Geometry/ and Pre-Calculus and are able to move back and forth between the concepts. For example when discussing the solution of simultaneous linear equations, you should recognize that that’s the same as asking where two lines cross.  When give a quadratic function, you should be able to visualize the parabola that it defines – maybe not all of the details, but certainly be aware whether it opens up or down. Basic link an equation to its graphical representation.

14. Please sign this Google Form: AP Calculus Sign Acknowledging that you have read and understand the course expectations and requirements.