Precalculus Investigations: A Laboratory Manual, Preliminary Edition

Precalculus Investigations: A Laboratory Manual, Preliminary Edition, 1/e

Gary M. Simundza, Wentworth Institute of Technology
Marcia A. Kemen, Wentworth Institute of Technology
Robert C. Cournoyer, Wentworth Institute of Technology
Anita T. Penta, Wentworth Institute of Technology
Charlene F. Solomon, Wentworth Institute of Technology

Published September, 1998 by Prentice Hall Engineering/Science/Mathematics

See other books about:
Algebra and Trigonometry-Mathematics

Precalculus Mathematics-Mathematics

Precalculus with Graphing Calculators-Mathematics

Algebra/Trig with Graphing Calculators-Mathematics

Technical Mathematics-Mathematics

Technical Mathematics with Calculus-Mathematics

Summary

Appropriate as a supplement to any text in the Precalculus Curriculum. College Algebra, Algebra and Trigonometry, Trigonometry or Precalculus. This three year NSF funded project integrates an applied approach to algebra/trigonometry/precalculus mathematics based on real engineering and design problems with mathematics curriculum reform principles and practice.
The Investigations reflect the AMATC and NCTM Standards in both curriculum content and pedagogy. Each lab is based on a real-world application from another discipline, and involves interactive and collaborative learning. Students will use technology (primarily graphing calculators), employing multiple approaches (analytical, graphical, numerical, verbal) to model solutions to these problems, increasing their reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Many mathematics instructors are eager to integrate realistic applications in their teaching, but lack the time and resources to develop the necessary connections on their own. These Investigations provide such applications by modeling workplace experiences of professionals in engineering, design and management occupations.

Features

Mathematics is placed in an authentic applications context. Students are motivated to learn the mathematics. See: Geodesic Domes. Pg. 4-5.
Students perform hands on experiments. Students learn data analysis methods and modeling skills. See: Getting a Charge out of Math. Pg. 3-8.
Probing, open-ended questions are included in all labs. Students develop critical thinking skills. See: Buckling of Slender Columns. Pg. 3.
Writing about mathematical concepts is a regular feature. Students must reflect on what they've learned and clearly express their mathematical understanding. See: Strength of Materials. Pg. 7.
Use of computational technology is encouraged throughout. Students learn to make efficient choices of solution methods. See: Life Cycle Cost Analysis.
Connections among different fields of study are revealed through mathematics. Students appreciate mathematics as a unifying language. See: Construction Project Cost and Machine Tooling.
Non-traditional topics such as statistics and discrete mathematics (logic, networks) are included. Teachers can extend the boundaries of the precalculus course. See: Logic Gates.
Tasks and Goals are clearly identifies throughout each lab.
Everyday language is used in attempt to make the directions user-friendly for the student.
Instructors' notes for each lab containing tips on equipment usage and teaching suggestions are included in the Instructor's Resource Manual.

Table of Contents

1. Aircraft Navigation I.
2. Aircraft Navigation II.
3. Air Pollution.
4. Buckling of Slender Columns.
5. Building Site Excavation.
6. Computing Interest I.
7. Computing Interest II.
8. Concrete Strength Testing.
9. Construction Project Cost and Machine Tooling.
10. Design of Spiral and Circular Stairs.
11. Design of a Straight Staircase.
12. Electronic Circuit Design.
13. Engineering Measurement.
14. Geodesic Domes.
15. Geometry of Design.
16. Getting a Charge out of Math.
17. Lease Space Analysis.
18. Life Cycle Cost Analysis.
19. Logic Gates.
20. Medication Dosing.
21. Milling Machine.
22. Noise Pollution.
23. Quality Assurance in Machining.
24. Robotics.
25. Shear and Bending Moment I.
26. Shear and Bending Moment II.
27. Soil Pressure.
28. Strength of Materials.
29. Temperature Sensing Diode.
30. Temperature and Volume.
31. Topics in Staircase Design.