Course Description Handbook 2014-2015 Rev.2 | Page 42

AP Calculus AB (Cum Laude Recognition) This course introduces the concept of formal differentiation and analytic geometry. Includes such topics as: derivatives of functions and trigonometric functions, integration, polar coordinates and vector equations. Special attention will be given to new applications for engineering, business, economics, and the life sciences. The course also provides instruction on the use of the scientific calculator and all of its functions. Students will be required to have a graphing calculator for this class. See the instructor if you would like suggestions for the type of graphing calculator to buy. See Advanced Placement Expectations/Criteria (pg 17) AP Calculus BC (Cum Laude Recognition) This course includes all Calculus AB topics as well as additional BC topics. Topics covered include: functions, graphs, and limits (including parametric, polar, and vector functions); derivatives, analysis of planar curves given in parametric form, polar form, and vector form (including velocity and acceleration); numerical solution of differential equations using Euler’s method, and L’ Hospital’s Rule (including its use in determining limits and convergence of improper integrals and series); derivatives of parametric, polar, and vector functions; integrals with applications, polynomial approximations and series (including Taylor series). Applications for engineering, business, economics and life science will be explored. This course will include the use of technology. Graphing calculators are required. The same graphing calculator that was used in AB calculus may be used. See Advanced Placement Expectations/Criteria (pg 17) Calculus (Cum Laude Recognition) A study of functions with applications, and an introduction to differential calculus. Topics include a review of algebra and functions, mathematical modeling with elementary functions, rates of change, inverse functions, logarithms and exponential functions, the derivative, differential equations, and Euler's method. Precalculus topics are reviewed when they are needed in the development of calculus. Topics include graphical interpretations