NROTC Calc and Physics

[NavRattler]

Hello all,

I am a NROTC Midshipman about to start my first calculus class in about two months. Calc and physics are what weed out the majority of Navy-options, so I’m told. Anybody have any advice on how to finish those courses successfully? Any input would be much appreciated!

PS: if you are not familiar with NROTC requirements, Midshipmen (specifically those on scholarship) are required to take calculus 1&2 as well as general physics 1&2. All must be passed with a C or better to commission.

 

[BTCS/USN]

Don't be embarrassed or afraid to ask for and seek all avenues of help early and often if you don't understand something or feel you may be behind the curve. ROTC like the service academies and the active duty military is based on teamwork. Use the team. That's how we all have succeeded for a couple hundred years.

 

[cb7893]

Hello all,

I am a NROTC Midshipman about to start my first calculus class in about two months. Calc and physics are what weed out the majority of Navy-options, so I’m told. Anybody have any advice on how to finish those courses successfully? Any input would be much appreciated!

PS: if you are not familiar with NROTC requirements, Midshipmen (specifically those on scholarship) are required to take calculus 1&2 as well as general physics 1&2. All must be passed with a C or better to commission.

You are off to the right start even asking the question. The smart a$$ answer is that the best way to finish successfully is by starting strong.

The Khan Academy has free online courses in any subject you can imagine. If you feel less than confident in Calc or Physics, I would get going on it immediately. It is almost impossible to make up lost ground if one falls behind.

My DS’s HS calculus teacher told us at the parents meeting that the way to get good at math is by doing math.

Congratulations and best of luck.

 

[kinnem]

Every NROTC unit I know of offers tutoring in at least Calculus and Physics. Take advantage of that. They also have study hours which are usually reserved for those in academic trouble but there is no reason you couldn't take advantage of them if it helps you focus. As someone said earlier, Khan academy is an excellent resource. I would try to keep up with what you are studying in class with it.

 

[Physicsguru]

I'm a physics professor, so here's what I tell my students:

1) Read your syllabus. It has the schedule of classes, readings, assignments, etc., so you always know what's coming up.
2) Read ahead, and take notes while you read. Never go into a class without going over that class's reading first. After all, a football player should have read the playbook before practice.
3) Go to class, and take handwritten notes in class. Especially at big universities where attendance isn't taken, people have to be reminded why they're there in the first place.
4) Rewrite your notes *immediately* after class, while the material is still fresh.
5) Do your assignments on the day assigned, preferably on the day the subject is covered. That will also give you time to ask for help before the due date.
6) Go to the instructors/TAs office hours at least once a week, with specific questions based on the assignments.

Last bit of advice. Don't chase the grade, but learn the material. If you learn the subject, the grades will come.

Good luck.