How important is trigonometry knowledge for learning calculus?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the importance of trigonometry knowledge for learning calculus, including the prerequisites needed for a solid foundation in calculus. Participants explore various educational resources and the role of algebra and trigonometry in understanding calculus concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests recommendations for effective calculus learning resources, including books and websites.
  • Another mentions that some students have started a specific online calculus course.
  • Several participants assert that a solid understanding of basic algebra is essential before attempting calculus, emphasizing the need for practice.
  • It is noted that a foundation in trigonometry is also important, as calculus integrates various mathematical skills.
  • However, some participants argue that certain calculus courses, such as "business calculus," may not require trigonometry knowledge, suggesting that key concepts can be learned without it.
  • There is a caution that while some approaches to calculus may omit trigonometry, students pursuing science or engineering majors would be poorly prepared without it.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the necessity of algebra for learning calculus, but there is disagreement regarding the importance of trigonometry, with some asserting it is essential while others suggest it may not be required for all calculus courses.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights varying educational paths and prerequisites for calculus, indicating that the necessity of trigonometry may depend on the specific calculus course or application being pursued.

Einstein's Cat
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May you please share your recommendations in regard to means of effectively learning calculus: if it be through books, then what titles are noteworthy or alternatively, what websites are reliable and are of a high standard? Thank you!
 
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Two of my students started with the free Ohio State Calc One course through Coursera.
 
Given your recent threads, you are not ready for calculus at all. You should be starting with basic algebra. There are many websites such as Khan Academy that will help you with algebra, but you need to be sure to do a lot of problems!
 
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micromass said:
Given your recent threads, you are not ready for calculus at all. You should be starting with basic algebra. There are many websites such as Khan Academy that will help you with algebra, but you need to be sure to do a lot of problems!

Right. Taking Calculus before you have mastered algebra will be a fruitless exercise in frustration.
 
Dr. Courtney said:
Right. Taking Calculus before you have mastered algebra will be a fruitless exercise in frustration.
Thanks for all your help.
 
Dr. Courtney said:
Right. Taking Calculus before you have mastered algebra will be a fruitless exercise in frustration.
You also have to have a foundation in trigonometry, as well. Calculus is an integration of algebra, trigonometry, and all the other math skills learned previously. You'll miss out if you lack one or another.
 
ProfuselyQuarky said:
You also have to have a foundation in trigonometry, as well. Calculus is an integration of algebra, trigonometry, and all the other math skills learned previously. You'll miss out if you lack one or another.

This is true in most cases. However, there are many versions of Calculus that rely only on algebra without pre-requisite knowledge in trig. A lot of "business calculus" type courses are examples. Many key theorems and concepts in Calculus may be learned without trig, as there are many examples of functions to demonstrate and practice them without trig. However, one would be poorly prepared for a science or engineering major with these approaches.
 

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