MATH 170 - Calculus for Life Sciences I

(MATF, GEEL)

Intended primarily for students of the life sciences. An introduction to the major ideas of single variable calculus including limits, derivatives, and integrals of algebraic and transcendental functions; applications to the life sciences. Credit may not be earned in both MATH 170 and MATH 181. Not intended for students of the physical sciences, engineering, or mathematics. PREREQUISITE(S): A grade of C or better in MATH 165, appropriate score on mathematics assessment test, or consent of department. Assessment Level(s): ENGL 101/ENGL 011 or ELAI 990. For computation of tuition, this course is equivalent to five semester hours. Five hours each week.

4 semester hours

Course Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course, a student will be able to:

Evaluate limits graphically, algebraically, and numerically.
Interpret limits verbally.
Find a derivative directly from the limit definition of a derivative.
Explain and distinguish between average and instantaneous rates of change and be able to interpret each within the context of an applied problem.
Identify and apply the appropriate rule(s) for symbolic differentiation.
Interpret derivatives verbally in the context of an application.
Demonstrate how to use derivatives to model and analyze a variety of applications, such as problems involving optimization, related rates, and applied problems in the life sciences.
Demonstrate how to use derivatives to obtain information about the graph of a function and use the graph of a function to obtain information about its derivatives.
Interpret the definite integral as a limit of sums.
Interpret the indefinite integral as an inverse process of differentiation and evaluate indefinite integrals.
Determine when and how to apply the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus.
Demonstrate how to use technology to discover, explore, illustrate, and understand limits, derivatives, and integrals.

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