Comment due Sunday, October 20
MAT 2580 students’ instructions
MAT 2580 students, the instructions here are not for you! Do not comment on this post! See the post with your instructions over on the MAT 1375 site.
MAT 1375 students’ instructions
MAT 1375 students, welcome to the MAT 2580 site! The students in MAT 2580 are learning linear algebra. So far, they have learned generalizations of the type of algebra you would have seen in your high school or college algebra class.
MAT 2580 has MAT 1575 (Calculus II) as a pre- or co-requisite, which has MAT 1475 (Calculus I) as a prerequisite, which has MAT 1375 (your class) as a prerequisite!
So the MAT 2580 students are like future versions of you, who have already passed MAT 1375 and 1475, and maybe even 1575. Even if you are not going to take MAT 2580 yourself, you probably have questions that the MAT 2580 students could answer.
- Maybe you’d like to ask them what skills or material they think is most important from MAT 1375?
- Maybe you’d like to ask them what they wish they’d learned better from MAT 1375 or from any of their other math courses?
- Maybe you’d just like to ask them how they succeeded in MAT 1375 or in any of their other math courses or how they prepare to take a math test?
- Maybe you have a more personal question for them like what their major is, what they like about differential equations, what they liked about Calculus or Algebra, or what other math classes they have to take?
Now’s your chance to get some advice from students who are a bit ahead of where you currently are on their math journeys!
So, your instructions for this assignment are simple: in the comments below, ask the MAT 2580 students any questions you like.
Since you have not commented in this group before, your comments will not appear right away. They have to be approved by the administrator first, but the administrator is me and I’ll approve any questions (as long as they are not too inappropriate). Anyone who asks a question will earn participation credit.
Hello! My question for the MAT2580 students is: what do they recommend we really understand and should we keep practicing from 1375? and what techniques and methods did you use to pass the test?
Hello Cindip, It will also be helpful to be familiar with determinants, matrix operations, and the fundamentals of vectors. Regular problem-solving practice is essential for passing the tests, particularly when it comes to matrices and linear transformations. Attend office hours for further assistance, join study groups to discuss issues, and use previous exams or sample tests to get a feel for the format of the test. Your preparation for Linear Algebra will improve if you concentrate on these techniques. Good Luck on your Class.
Become confident in solving trigonometric and complex number problems, those problems will prepare you for calculus. If you have extra time, start exploring derivatives since they are the main focus in calculus. Spend time with derivative formulas and rules, and practice figuring out when and how to apply each rule. Consistent practice will help you build a solid foundation for success in calculus. Lastly, take advantage of webwork, do not be lazy on that portion.
Hello my question for the students taking the MAT2580 class is: What study methods did you guys use to help pass the class?
Hey Terrell! One of the study techniques that I used was practice tests. I would make my own test that consisted of a problem from each section in the textbook. If I didn’t want to make my own test, I would just look up some test online and use it as a practice test. If I am not wrong, you most likely will be provided with a review test before your finals. This review test would have about 80% of the same problem format. The test will just have different values. If you just solve this review sheet, you would be set for the finals. Good luck!
In my case, I like to highlight the major formulas and concepts. If I don’t understand something, I will take a look at videos and understand the concepts step by step. Then I summarize my study sessions with practice problems. Once everything falls into place, I have the concepts etched in my brain, somewhere that I will not miss it. It’s is quite helpful for me at the end. Sometimes, it will be tough to see the answer but all you need is patience.