AP Calc: Week 1

This was the first week of our AP Calculus class. We learned a lot about Mr. Cresswell, and we filled out some surveys so that he could learn about his students. We have to do a pre-requisite packet so that we can remember what we learned last year. All of the questions in the packet are based off of topics that we learned last year, some more than others. I think that most of these questions will be basis for future calculus problems.

One topic that I understand really well is using proportions to solve similar triangles. If there is a smaller triangle inside of a larger one, or if theta is the same angle in both triangles, proportions can be easily used to solve the sides. Let's say that the left leg of one triangle is 12ft, and the left leg of the smaller triangle is 2ft. The length of the larger triangle's base is 24ft, and the base of the smaller triangle is unknown. To find the length of the base of the smaller triangle, all you would have to do is solve the proportion12/2 and 24/x to find x, you can multiply 24 by 2, to get 48, and divide by 12 to get 4. So the length of the smaller triangle's base is 4ft. A section that I am struggling with is the composition of functions. I always seem to forget how to solve them, and which function goes into what. I'm sure I will figure it out in time, I'm just worried about the test on Monday! Well, whatever happens, I am still looking forward to a challenging yet rewarding year in AP Calculus!!

#Vacation