Request for Insight Regarding Calculus Validation Tests

[kayaker]

DS is looking forward to I Day but I was shocked to find out he has put off the calculus validation tests. When I asked why, he pointed out that he took B/C calculus his junior year of high school. He's a reapplicant, so he has a year of college under his belt too. He voiced some concern about how long ago he took calc 1 and that the calc 1 test may include a theorem he has forgotten that was not necessary to learning the next level of calculus. So he's reviewing calc 1 again even though he aced calc through calc 3 in high school, then again got an A in calc 3 in college last year. Any advice I can give him to allow him to enjoy his last few days at home? He just does not want to take calc 3 again.

 

[NavyHoops]

Take the test and let the cards fall where they are. Never know what he will or will not remember. USNA has done this process for a very long time and usually gets it right. Seriously, just do it, forget about it and just enjoy the last few days.

 

[goldtrim3]

Take the tests, they are not punitive.

 

[c.eatmon]

Hello Everyone,

I am a recent appointee and am having a hard time with the pre-calculus exams on Blackboard. I've taken the courses and have always had A's in high school math. I took IB Math Studies as a Senior which is mainly statistics and trigonometry. I suspect this may have been the problem as most of the stuff was familiar but kind of complex in structure. My main question is does anyone know what the 4-year layout is for a Midshipman who has to take pre-calculus? Also, are the blocked from any majors? I want to major in Systems Engineering.

 

[NavyHoops]

If you start in Pre-Calc then you take Calc 1 second semester and mandatory summer school between 4/C and 3/C year. Then you are caught up at that point. Yes it could impact major. I think if you do well then it shouldn't be an issue. The placement exam does a good job of placing you in the right level, trust it, never know what might happen. You can't control this at this point. Leave blackboard alone and enjoy the last few days.