Mathematical Connections: A Modeling Approach to Business Calculus, Vol. I- Preliminary Edition

Mathematical Connections: A Modeling Approach to Business Calculus, Vol. I- Preliminary Edition, 1/e

Bruce Pollack-Johnson, Villanova University
Audrey Fredrick Borchardt, Villanova University

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

See other books about:
Applied Calculus with Graphing Calculators-Mathematics

Mathematics for Business with Graphing Calculators-Mathematics

Summary

The text's overall approach is problem-driven with topics motivated and developed using interesting and useful real-world examples, many from actual student projects. The focus of the text is on the entire process of problem-solving, including the formulation and validation of mathematical models. It emphasizes conceptual understanding so students can use techniques and technology intelligently as a tool for solving real problems. (Graphing calculator and/or spreadsheet are recommended.)

Features

Helps students understand mathematical functions and models, including the ability to identify and validate assumptions of models, make ballpark estimates, verify calculations, perform sensitivity analysis, and identify an appropriate level of precision to reflect a reasonable margin of error.
Helps students to think critically, become independent problem-solvers, and to gain experience with commonly used technology.
Integrates all aspects of the course through student- generated projects. Each student chooses a topic and uses that to experience the problem-solving process from beginning to end.
Introduces each section with interesting and relevant problems as well as a list of concepts and skills to be studied.
Connects topics together and to students' other courses, careers, and personal lives.

Table of Contents
= VOLUME I (Business Calculus):

1. Problem Solving Functions, and Models.
2. Rates of Change.
3. Single-Variable Optimization and Analysis.
4. Continuous Probability and Integration. = VOLUME II (Finite Mathematics):
5. Multivariable Functions and Models.
6 Descriptive Statistics and Least Squares Regression.
7. Matrices.
8. Multivariable Optimization and Analysis.
9. Linear Programming and Constrained Optimization.
Appendix 1. Answers to Selected Problems.
Appendix 2. Student Generated Projects: Topic Ideas and Guidelines.
Appendix 3. Mathematical Background and Proofs.