This is a college-level course, and I really need to know how far back I need to go to teach myself how to get there. I'm stuck, I can't go any further in college until I pass this course, which I have already taken twice. I need to know the name of a pre-requisite, or a text...something...hellllp!
2007-10-05 13:28:31 · 7 answers · asked by tlwdthn 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Mathematics
Unless someone has complicated life, pre-calculus algebra is just algebra. I would expect, because of shifting attitudes toward story problems and formulas that you should be able to find books at the elementary school, middle school, and high school level on the topic to prepare you.
Although it may seem insulting, go to the library or a book store and look at the various "Algebra for Dummies" and similar lines of books and see if any of them begin where you are. Most of the books know they have to explain up from a moderate level of knowledge, while text books assume knowledge without explaining what that is.
And it may seem silly, but since it happened to me, have your eyes checked and see whether you can read comfortably. I had worn glasses since junior high, but only after I slowly failed out of college after a year and a half did an exam reveal that my astigmatism meant I could see clearly with my glasses, but I could not hold focus comfortably without bifocals. So I didn't really take in what I tried to keep looking at and studying was very tiring and frustrating.
2007-10-05 13:39:25 · answer #1 · answered by Mike1942f 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I took Algebra 2 and Trigonometry at the same time, and after that I took Calculus 1. I don't know if Pre-Calculus is a prerequisite nowadays, but I didn't need it when I was in school. I don't see the point of taking Algebra 2 and Pre-Calculus at the same time. It would depend on how well you do with mathematics.
2016-05-17 06:39:19 · answer #2 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yeah, pre-calc or any calc isn't the easiest thing ever...I started in College Algebra and now I'm up to Calculus III, so I definitely know its not an easy road. The only advice I can give you is to pick up two books, "How to Ace Calculus: The Streetwise Guide" and "How to Ace The rest of Calculus" by the authors Colin Adams, Abigail Thompson, and Joel Hass. These two books really helped me out through Calc I and II and explains things pretty clearly. "How to Ace Calculus" is the first half and should get you through pre-calc and calc I and a little bit of calc II...the other one should get you through the rest. Hope that helps.
2007-10-05 13:40:32 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I don't believe that the math itself should be a problem if u are studying to be an engineer or something.. I think that the real problem is the amount of time that it takes to grasp and master so many mathematical topics...One semester usually doesn't offer the time required to do this..However just work hard with a study group and u should "survive" Calculus itself is not hard at all, it like having a mathematical power tool instead of the "traditional ones".
good luck
2007-10-05 13:49:11 · answer #4 · answered by dareapa 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
intermediate algebra and geometry, because I believe pre-calculus consists of college algebra and trigonometry
2007-10-05 13:32:29 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
so why don't you talk to your professor? I'm sure there is a free tutoring center on your campus, or your professor can always ask one of his students in higher level classes to help you
2007-10-05 13:38:21 · answer #6 · answered by babigrl22 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
My God, you are persistent! I don't envy you or have the vaguest idea .... but, you can make an appointment with the prof or his assistant and discuss your dilemma. Good luck!
2007-10-05 13:38:28 · answer #7 · answered by te144 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋