Learning List has reviewed two National Geographic Learning/Cengage Learning products written by the team of authors led by Ron Larson: Calculus: Early Transcendental Functions, AP Edition, and Calculus of a Single Variable, Early Transcendentals, AP Edition. As their titles suggest, both courses incorporate the early transcendental function approach to calculus instruction and support instruction in Advanced Placement (AP) AP Calculus courses (i.e., AB and BC). The texts are comprehensive and available in print and online (i.e., eBook) formats.
Calculus: Early Transcendental Functions, provides instruction for a three-semester engineering calculus course in in 16 chapters that present content in a linear and logical manner. Calculus of a Single Variable, Early Transcendentals presents the same content, but limited to single variable calculus (i.e., Chapters 1-10 of Calculus: Early Transcendental Functions).
In both texts, each chapter begins with an overview of content by chapter section as well as photographs and images that help students understand the real-life applications of what they will learn. Some chapter sections include projects that provide opportunities for students to extend their knowledge and solve problems collaboratively. eBooks have sets of icons that cue users to access media resources that include: (1) video tutorials (tutorials are closed captioned and include transcripts), (2) interactive animations of concepts (requires the download of “Wolfram CD Player” technology), (3) “Try It” problems that feature pop-up windows with detailed solution strategies, and (4) articles addressing calculus concepts.
Chapters end with review exercises and problem solving activities, some of which are formatted to reflect problems on the AP exam. Exercises focus on real-world applications and require students to draw on multiple concepts to identify solutions. Odd-numbered problems have tutorial support and completed solutions available at “CalcChat.com.”
About National Geographic Learning /Cengage Learning*
National Geographic Learning, a part of Cengage Learning, is a leading educational publisher of school, higher education, English Language Teaching, library and reference materials. At National Geographic Learning, we believe that an engaged and motivated learner will be a successful one, and we design our materials to motivate. We believe that learning can be exciting, inspiring, and transformational.
Through our learning programs, we want learners to experience the excitement and joy of learning that National Geographic explorers, scientists, writers and photographers experience. We share real stories from National Geographic that increase learners’ knowledge of the world and everything in it. We illustrate these materials with stunning National Geographic photography, video, and illustrations that bring the world to the classroom and the classroom to life.
At National Geographic Learning, we have a responsibility to future generations to provide strong educational skills and an awareness of their role as caretakers of the planet.
*The content in this section is provided by or adapted from National Geographic Learning.
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