Q. Is there a math requirement at Haverford?

No, but there is a Quantitative requirement. There are courses outside the Math department that satisfy the Q requirement, so students need not take a math course to do so.

Q. Is Math 118 the same as Calculus AB or Calculus BC?

Neither. Math 118 is a course designed to follow a standard one-semester intro to calculus course (such as our Math 105, taught in the spring) or a high-school course in which students learned about the meaning, application and calculation of derivatives.

Q. What do I need to know to succeed in Math 118?

You need to know how to compute derivatives of polynomials, exponential functions, trig functions, and their combinations (products, quotients and especially the chain rule). You need to have an understanding of the graphical significance of the first and second derivatives. You need to have a good background in precalculus and algebra.

Q. I had calculus before, but I think I didn’t learn it well/ I forgot most of it. Should I take Math 118?

First, think about whether you want/need to take calculus at all. If you only want to satisfy the Q requirement, you might consider other courses that fulfill the requirement. However if you like calculus and/or need Math 118 for your intended course of study, you should spend some time with the resources on this website, to review and learn the calculus skills you’ll need to succeed in Math 118. Then be sure to use the Math Question Center and the Calculus Resource Center during the term to fill in any gaps.

Q. Should I take Math 105?

Math 105 (Applied Calculus) is a course designed for students with little or no background in calculus. If you have had a significant course in calculus already, it would probably be a waste of time. Students may not take Math 105 if they have any AP or other calculus credits.

Q. I heard that Math 118 starts out with material that is completely new, and I’m a little nervous. Should I take Math 105 instead?

If you’ve had a calculus course already, and you need/want to continue taking calculus, it is to your advantage not to go backwards, but to learn new material. Most courses you take in College will build on your previous study to learn new things. There’s a lot of support in Math 118 to help you learn the new material (MQC, CRC, office hours, and discussion sessions) so if you put in the required effort, you’ll be successful!

Q. What kind of calculator do I need?

You can use a scientific calculator if you want, but we’ll be doing most of our calculations and graphical work using Mathematica.

Q. Do I need to purchase Mathematica for my computer?

No, Haverford College has a site license, so that all students can download the program for free. See here for more info.

Q. What is the Math Question Center (MQC)?

The MQC is open 5 nights per week (Sun-Thurs 7-9pm) and is staffed by undergrads and faculty who are there to help by answering questions you have about your course material or homework. The MQC is in the basement of Hilles (H011).

Q. What is the Calculus Resource Center (CRC)?

The CRC is open a few nights each week 9-11pm, and is staffed by undergrad tutors who are there specifically to answer questions from Math 118. The CRC is located in the Office of Academic Resources in Stokes Hall, in room 118K.