Practice Precalculus Test

Calculus I Project

Introduction


In this project we will begin study of a new type of computer program known as a Computer Algebra System. The name of the program we will be using is Maple. Maple will perform otherwise long and tedious mathematical operations quickly and easily. We will study Maple's usefulness and review Pre-Calculus at the same time. First complete the Pre-Calculus exam given below without using Maple.  Prepare a neat handwritten copy of the completed exam.Then study the interactive Maple Lesson listed on the home page

Next we will complete the exam again. This time we will use the computer and Maple to help with the calculations. Maple will be able to completely answer some questions easily.

Some questions can be answered by a combination of your own thinking as well as the use of Maples. Maple might be of no use at all for some questions.


Along with the hand written exam and Maples printout, the following questions must be answered as well:

1) Which questions could Maple answer completely? Which questions could be solved by a combination of human knowledge and computer use to arrive at the answer? For which questions (if any) could you not use Maple at all?

2) Can you think of your own Calculus I problem which could best be solved by a combination of human knowledge and Maple's power? Can you think of a Calculus I problem for which Maple is of no use at all?

Practice Test

Question 1

Solve by completing the square

a) [Maple Math] + 4[Maple Math]- 12 = 0

b) c [Maple Math] - b[Maple Math] + a = 0

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Question 2

Find the intersections by both algebra and graphing

The line that passes through (2,1) with m=-2 and
y = 2x + 1

Question 3

Find the intersections by both algebra and graphing
[Maple Math] + [Maple Math] = 25
y = x + 2

Question 4

f(x) = [Maple Math] - 3[Maple Math]

f(2 ) =

f(-2) =

f ( [Maple Math] ) =

f(x+h) =

f(x+h) - f(x) =

[Maple Math] =

Question 5

Write the exponential equation and solve for x.

[Maple Math] 16 = 4

[Maple Math] x = -2

[Maple Math] 64 = x

Question 6

Graph the following:
y = sin x
y = sin (4x)
y = 3 sin (4x)
y = 3 sin (4x) - 1

Question 7

Find the equation of the parabola whose vertex is (1,2)

and contains the point (0,4)

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MSIP Grant #P120A80089-98: "Three Urban Calculus Reform programs: Adopting the Best" 1998-2001


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