Should I retake pre-calc before calculus 1

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the necessity of retaking a precalculus course before enrolling in Calculus 1 at a four-year university. The original poster scored a 3.2 in Calculus 1 but feels this does not accurately reflect their understanding, particularly since their previous course did not cover integration. Recommendations include self-studying precalculus using resources like mathispower4u.com and considering ALEKS precalculus and Coursera's Calculus One for additional support.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic algebra and functions
  • Familiarity with limits and derivatives
  • Knowledge of integration concepts
  • Experience with online learning platforms like Coursera
NEXT STEPS
  • Study precalculus topics on mathispower4u.com
  • Enroll in ALEKS precalculus for structured learning
  • Complete Coursera's Calculus One course for a comprehensive review
  • Review differentiation and integration techniques in preparation for Calculus 1
USEFUL FOR

Students transitioning from community college to a four-year university, particularly those needing to strengthen their precalculus skills before tackling Calculus 1.

Kiyo15
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I have taken precalculus class a few years ago. I finally took calculus 1 and the same school just last quarter and got a 3.2. I had a pretty cool teacher. I'm transferring to a four year school and have to retake calculus 1, but I'm contemplating on retaking a pre calculus at the four year school. Honestly I don't think the 3.2 reflects my knowledge of calculus. I feel that knowing what to expect drives me to go into calculus 1 but a little voice is telling me maybe brush up on some precalculus so that I'm not in a hole. The reason it did not transfer is we never covered intergration at my community college. The four year university has intergration in its calculus 1 course. Thoughts?
 
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Not sure what goes in the courses in your part of the world. Retaking Calculus 1 would be necessary. The course introduces you to limits of functions, gives a good study of differentiation and the derivative, and begins the study of the integral and gives you the beginning skills of integration.

You could study all of Pre-Calculus on your own, not enrolling in the course. You already have the credit. You just need to renew you skill and knowledge.
 
Check the site videos at mathispower4u.com. They have a series on precalculus topics as well as calculus 1 2 and 3. They are all free to view and run about 10 minutes each.
 
I recommend ALEKS precalculus and Coursera Calculus One.
 

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