Kenyon Mathematics Placement: Which Calculus Course is right for me?
Kenyon offers three different calculus courses in the fall:
- Calculus 1 (Math 111): This is our "standard" introductory calculus course. If you have a relatively solid background in precalculus (algebra and trigonometry), but have seen little or no calculus, this is the place to start. The course focuses on derivatives, from basic definitions through techniques to some applications; however, the basics of integration (including the technique of substitution) are also touched on in the last few weeks of the course. Calc 1 is offered every semester.
- Calculus 2 (Math 112): This is the second course in our calculus sequence. The course focuses principally on techniques and applications of integration and on sequences and series. Calc 2 is offered every semester.
- Calculus 3 (Math 213): This is the third course in our calculus sequence. The course takes the ideas from Calculus 1 and 2 and moves them from two dimensions to three (and higher!) dimensions. Calc 3 is offered every semester.
Which course is right for you?
Calculus I, Math 111?
Though some students who take it know a bit of calculus, Calculus I assumes no prior experience with calculus topics. To be ready for Calculus I, you need a “solid grounding in algebra, trigonometry and elementary functions” — this preparation is provided by a standard High School mathematics curriculum that does not include a study of Calculus.
Calculus II, Math 112?
This is a bit more complicated because there are many ways to prepare for Calculus II.
- Advanced Placement? Calculus AB exam.
- If made a 4 or a 5, you should sign up for Calculus II, Math 112.
- If you scored 3 or less, you should sign up for Calculus I, Math 111.
- IBHL Math?
- If you made a 5, 6, or 7, you should sign up for Calculus II, Math 112.
- Remark: some students who make a 6 or 7 on IBHL Math are ready for Calculus III, Math 213. If you think you may be ready for Calculus III, please take
Placement exam: Calculus II vs. Calculus III.
- If you scored 4 or less, you should sign up for Calculus I, Math 111.
- Calculus A levels? Sign up for Calculus II, Math 112
- If you do not have any of the above, but think you are ready for Calc II, take
Placement Exam: Calculus I vs. Calculus II
Calculus III, Math 213?
- Advanced Placement? Calculus BC exam.
- If made a 4 or a 5, you should sign up for Calculus III, Math 213.
- If you scored 3 or less, you should sign up for Calculus II, Math 112.
- If you do not have AP, but think you are ready for Calc III, take
Placement Exam: Calculus II vs. Calculus III
- IBHL Math with a 6 or a 7? See previous information.
If you have Abitur, French Baccalaureate, etc., or have transfer credits from another college or
university, you should contact Carol Schumacher.
If you still have questions, or if you are trying to place into courses beyond Calculus III, please
contact Carol Schumacher.