CALCULUS CONNECTIONS

With challenging new standards-based middle school mathematics curricula now in place, future teachers need college-level mathematics instruction that better prepares them for their professional careers. Addresses the importance of learning calculus in preparation for the teaching of middle school mathematics, focusing on concepts and applications to illuminate the connections that exist between college-level calculus and the mathematics taught in today’s middle schools. Examines the unique needs of future teachers in comparison to general calculus books. Initiates new topics with engaging discussion rather than the standard formula-proof-example approach. Stresses the interplay between geometry and calculus, and demonstrates the essential power of calculus for computing areas, lengths, surface areas, and volumes. For current or future mathematics teachers, or anyone interested in learning more about calculus.