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MATH 01130 · 4 cr · Foundation
Calculus I
Foundation for every later Rowan math course and a big chunk of Praxis Functions & Calculus.
Suggested prep window: 3–5 weeks if algebra/trig is rusty; 2 weeks if strong
Prerequisites to lock first
- College algebra fluency
- Functions, graphs, factoring
- Unit circle trig (sin/cos/tan, basic identities)
A-grade strategy
- Do every odd homework problem cold — then re-do misses next day.
- Explain each derivative rule out loud without notes.
- Weekly timed quiz: 8–10 mixed problems in 40 minutes.
- Never skip related rates / optimization — those separate B from A.
What you must know
Click any item for a definition, short reading, flashcards, and a practice prompt.
Derivatives
Applications of derivatives
Integrals (intro)
Tutorials & videos
Watch intuition first, then full lectures, then drill. Links open free resources (YouTube, Khan, MIT OCW, notes).
playlist
Professor Leonard — Calculus 1 (full lectures)
Best free stand-in for a live Calc I class — long, clear, exam-ready.
Open resource →
playlist
3Blue1Brown — Essence of Calculus
Builds intuition for derivatives/integrals before you grind procedures.
Open resource →
practice
Khan Academy — AP Calculus AB / Calculus 1
Topic drills with instant feedback — use after each Leonard lecture.
Open resource →
notes
Paul's Online Math Notes — Calculus I
Clean written notes + practice problems with solutions.
Open resource →
playlist
Organic Chemistry Tutor — Calculus 1 playlist
Shorter worked examples when you need one technique fast.
Open resource →
Self-check (no notes)
If you can do these cold, you are ready to start the Rowan section strong.
- Differentiate (3x²+1)⁵ sin(2x) without looking anything up.
- Solve one related-rates and one optimization problem from scratch.
- Evaluate ∫(2x+1)³ dx and a simple definite integral using FTC.
- Explain continuity vs differentiability with one sketch each.