Pre-Cal to Calc 1: Which Option is Best?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the decision-making process for a student transitioning from pre-calculus to calculus 1. Participants explore the implications of taking calculus during the summer versus taking a preparatory algebra course beforehand, focusing on the importance of a solid foundation in algebra for success in calculus.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about their algebra skills and presents two options for proceeding to calculus 1: taking it in the summer or taking a refresher course.
  • Another participant suggests that waiting until the fall to review algebra and pre-calculus would be the better choice.
  • A different participant reiterates the recommendation to wait until fall and emphasizes that taking a mathematics course in the summer is generally a poor decision, advocating for self-study instead.
  • Another comment asserts that even strong students in algebra and trigonometry should avoid taking calculus in the summer, reinforcing the idea that summer courses may not be advisable.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that taking calculus during the summer is not advisable, but there is no consensus on the best preparatory approach, as opinions vary on whether to focus on algebra review or self-study.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying levels of confidence in their algebra skills, which may influence their recommendations. The discussion does not resolve the effectiveness of summer courses versus preparatory study.

Berry77
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Hi everyone, I am new here. I know this has been asked before so forgive me, but ima ask again. :)
So I'm n pre cal right now and it's going fairly well. I think I'll pass with a B. Next I need to take calculus 1..then later calc 2. So I have 2 options. 1. I can take calculus 1 this summer. I hear having a solid foundation in algebra is critical to calc 1 success. And I'm not confident in my algebra skills. So option 2. Take some algebra prep/refresher course offered this summer and just take calculus 1 in the fall. Which would you choose?
 
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IMO, I think your best bet would be to wait until Fall and brush up on your algebra/pre-calc over the Summer.
 
This is the way:
Mondayman said:
IMO, I think your best bet would be to wait until Fall and brush up on your algebra/pre-calc over the Summer.
Taking a Mathematics course in the summer is a very bad idea. Studying something like Algebra on your own or reviewing some Calculus 1 material during that time instead, is a very good idea.
 
Even if you were very good in algebra, trig and precalculus, taking calculus over the summer would still be a very bad idea.
 

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