If you are already enrolled in C958 at WGU, or you are just preparing for it, this is your one-stop source to excel in Calculus I. To the student preparing for this class, be assured that you are on the right site. It is intended to help both, the fan of mathematics and the person having some difficulties with calculus, to make passing through C958 easier.
Mathematics, especially Calculus I is considered to be an important stepping stone in the academic route and the same applies to the WGU too. In this course, you would be learning basic concepts on which most of the challenging concepts in mathematics are based. But do not fear my dear reader, for we are going to simplify this for you. In this guide, you will find a description of what you are going to learn in the class, a first-week study plan, and the essential topics customers ought to pay attention to. Further, I shall highlight some superb sites that will assist you in understanding tough concepts efficiently from where you belong, and which you can visit free of cost. If your goal is to achieve 100 percent or at least to get a bare passing mark, this guide will be very useful to you.
...
What to Expect from the Module WGU C958 📖
Calculus I (C958) is the Math course offered by WGU in which you are developed mathematically and actual theoretical concepts of calculus are applied. Some of the important topics in this course include; limits, derivatives, integrals, differential equations, and others. Besides, it creates a foundation for your further academic classes in Discrete Mathematics, which makes it as important as a stone in construction.
Given that it is an online course, be prepared for a lot of studying. Each week you should spend at least fifteen to twenty hours on the course that lasts eight weeks. For those who want to involve more time and hope for a higher speed of knowledge, there is a four-week alternative in the choice of a study schedule, still, it is better to discuss the further choice with the help of your course instructor. It is accompanied by a zyBooks e-text that is fully tailored to the course and contains numerous lively activities and lesson quizzes for reinforcement.
You may wish first to glance at the Chapter called Precalculus which is offered as Optional to the main content of the Presentation. If it is years since you have solved calculus, or even if you have doubts in your mind regarding your capabilities, then this will be immensely helpful. The course also stresses the necessity of being armed with the proper tools: thus, for example, a scientific calculator such as TI-30XS Multiview is suggested to be used; it is, however, necessary to check if other models are also acceptable at the present moment.
While progressing you will find yourself challenged by the pre-assessment as well as the objective assessment. The pre-quiz will especially assist in evaluating your preparedness once you are through with the zyBooks and the objective quizzes will indicate your competence in the areas of calculus within the course. Remember to use the ‘Take a Break Feature for Online Assessments’ to avoid feeling fatigued throughout the examinations. With such components well embedded, C958 has been designed to not only teach you calculus but also how to apply it wherever needed.
Competencies covered in this module:
- Limits – The graduate determines a limit numerically, algebraically, and graphically. (10 questions 19%)
- Derivatives – The graduate analyzes derivatives and their properties. (24 questions 44%)
- Integrals – The graduate analyzes integrals and their properties. (16 questions 30%)
- Differential Equations – The graduate solves differential equations. (4 questions 7%)
Study Guide to Pass the WGU C958 OA📝
Acing Calculus I (C958) at WGU requires a well-structured study plan that keeps you on track and ensures you cover all the necessary material. Here’s a week-by-week guide to help you prepare effectively and confidently for the Objective Assessment (OA).
Week 1: Do the Precalculus Assessment and Watch the Video
Start your journey by tackling the Precalculus assessment. This is crucial to identify any gaps in your knowledge that could hinder your progress in Calculus I. Make sure to watch the associated video, as it will reinforce the concepts you need to brush up on. This week sets the foundation, so take your time to ensure you fully understand the basics.
Find the video and assessment by visiting the location mentioned below:
- Go to the Student Portal of WGU > Log onto your profile > Go to the C958 module page > Click on the “Course Search” button > Find and open the link “Precalculus Self-Assessment”
Week 2: Read the Textbook (Go through the C958 Calculus I Formula Sheet)
Now that you’ve assessed your precalculus knowledge, dive into the core content of the course. Begin by thoroughly reading the textbook provided through zyBooks. Pay special attention to the C958 Calculus I Formula Sheet, as this will be your go-to resource throughout the course. Familiarize yourself with the formulas and try to understand how they apply to different problems. This step is essential for building a strong theoretical base.
To locate the ZyBook:
- Go to the Student Portal of WGU > Log onto your profile > Go to the C958 module page > Click on the “Go to course materials”
To download the formula sheet:
- Go to the Student Portal of WGU > Log onto your profile > Go to the C958 module page > Click on the “Go to course tips” > Click the link “C958 Supplemental materials” > Open “C958 Calculus I Formula Sheet”
Week 3: Read the Cohort Slides and Notes (Attend Live Cohorts if Possible)
With the textbook content under your belt, it’s time to enhance your understanding by reviewing the cohort slides and notes. These materials often provide additional insights and explanations that can help clarify complex topics. If you have the opportunity, attend live cohort sessions. These sessions allow you to engage with instructors and peers, ask questions, and get real-time feedback on any difficulties you might be facing.
To find the cohort slides and notes:
- Go to the Student Portal of WGU > Log onto your profile > Go to the C958 module page > Click on the “Go to course tips” > Click the link “C958 Supplemental materials” > Open “Cohort Slides”
Week 4: Contact the Course Instructors (Get Practice Quizzes and Clear Doubts)
By this time, an understanding of the course contents should have been acquired well. After that, take time and consult your course instructors to deepen your knowledge on the same. It is important to understand that proctored practice quizzes can be obtained from instructors who mimic the style and the type of questions that are seen in the OA. This is a good chance to enshroud any outstanding questions and make sure you are headed in the correct direction. The issue with these quizzes is that taking them frequently prepares candidates for the final assessment.
Week 5: Do the Pre-Assessment (Pre-A)
Knowing all the material is a great start, now you should challenge yourself. Known as Pre-Assessment, or Pre-A for short, the test is intended as an Objective Assessment replica and will give you an idea of your effectiveness. Approach this assessment with the seriousness that it deserves because it will point out the areas that will require more attention from the students before they take the final exam.
Once you complete the Pre-A, a coaching report will be autogenerated. This guide will visualize your results on your attempt and show you the areas you need improvement on. Re-read the sections of the ZyBook you need to revise and then retake the Pre-A over and over until you are able to attain a score of 85% or more.
Week 6: Do the Objective Assessment (OA)
Last, is the Objective Assessment more commonly known as the OA. At this point, you should feel that you are more than ready and prepared to perform tasks to the best of your capabilities. Ensure you’re fully rested and have all the necessities for the exam, including the permitted calculator. Ensure that you avail yourself of the “Take a Break Feature” if you need to draw some energy during the test. Coming into the OA, try to clear your mind and concentrate: the work you’ve been doing over the past few weeks should be enough to prepare you.
If you follow this study schedule you will be able to understand and excel in Calculus I (C958) and get a good score on your OA. Keep up the good work, stay on track, and don’t be afraid to ask for assistance when you need it.
...
WGU C958 External Resources to Help You Study👨🏻🏫
- Professor Leonard’s Calculus Playlist
Watch the playlist here
It is imperative to note that Professor Leonard is famous for his ability to simplify the model as well as simplify the laws of calculus. On YouTube, his playlist ranges from absolute principles to complicated sections. For those students who prefer to visualize things and those who need detailed breakdowns of calculus problems, this is simply amazing. The method he uses in teaching is friendly to the extent that even complex concepts can be easily understood.
- The Organic Chemistry Tutor
Visit the channel here
Though mainly focused on chemistry, The Organic Chemistry Tutor has superb videos on calculus as well. It is very easy to navigate, the lectures are well described and if one needs a refresher or a simple review on any area of law, then these videos are ideal. For any topic that you might be facing a challenge in understanding, this channel is a perfect source of simple explanations to consolidate the topic at hand.
- Khan Academy Calculus 1 Course
Access the course here
Namely, Khan Academy is quite famous among students all over the world. In Calculus 1 it appears that they go over a lot of materials including the limits and integration to the actual [integral]. This feature includes tests on the content that enables you to check your progress while learning, making it a good platform for the WGU coursework. Also, it is one hundred percent free and has a very simple, user-friendly interface.
- OpenStax
Explore OpenStax here
As for the resources with open licenses, there is OpenStax which provides free, peer-reviewed textbooks, including such sections as Calculus I, Calculus II, and Calculus III. These textbooks are detailed and can explain each concept being taught in class in detail. If you like reading more and prefer studying individually, OpenStax is one of the best-fit resources related to what is covered in your class.
- Quizlet – Trigonometry Formulas (Calculus 1 C958 WGU)
Check out the flashcards here
Over time, Quizlet has proved to be very useful in the teaching and learning process, especially in the area of memorization and revision. This particular set of flashcards entails formulas you are expected to learn in Trigonometry which is important for Calculus I examinations, and using the flashcards can assist you to glean through your books and notes quickly to get the correct formula in the case of examinations you are writing.
...
Key Topics to Focus On📂
In Calculus I (C958), some key concepts are critical for success, not only in passing your exams but also in building a strong foundation for future mathematical studies. Let’s break down these complex topics into digestible pieces, using comparisons, real-world examples, and visual aids to make them easier to grasp.
- Understanding the Difference Between Average/Instantaneous Rate of Change vs Average/Instantaneous Velocity
| Concept | Average Rate/Velocity | Instantaneous Rate/Velocity |
|---|---|---|
|
Definition
|
The change in a quantity over a specific interval of time
|
The rate of change at a specific instant in time
|
|
Example
|
Average speed over a road trip
|
Speed shown on a speedometer at a specific moment
|
|
Formula
|
ΔyΔt\frac{\Delta y}{\Delta t}ΔtΔy (change in position/change in time)
|
limΔt→0Δy\Δt (a derivative of position with respect to time)
|
|
Real-World Context
|
Calculating average grades over a semester
|
Checking your speed at a particular second while driving |
Why It Matters: Understanding this distinction is crucial for solving problems related to motion and change, which are common in calculus. These concepts will be heavily tested, particularly in questions that require you to differentiate between the average rate/velocity and the instantaneous rate/velocity.
- Volume Formulas for Sphere, Cube, Cylinder, and Cone
| Shape | Volume Formula | Example Calculation |
|---|---|---|
|
Sphere
|
V = (4\3)πr3
|
If r=3, then V = (4\3)π(3)3 = 113.1 cubic units
|
|
Cube
|
V=s3
|
If side s = 4, then V = 43 = 64 cubic units
|
|
Cylinder
|
V=πr2h
|
If r = 2 and h = 5,then V =π(2)2(5) = 62.8 cubic units
|
|
Cone
|
V=(1\3)πr2h
|
If r=3 and h=7, then V = (1\3)π(3)2(7) = 65.97 cubic units |
Why It Matters: These volume formulas are fundamental in calculus, especially when dealing with integrals involving volumes of revolution. You’ll need to know how to apply these formulas in various contexts, so memorizing and understanding them is essential.
- Manipulating Trigonometric Functions, ln, and e
| Function | Graph Characteristics | Manipulation Examples |
|---|---|---|
|
Trigonometric Functions
|
Sine and cosine waves oscillate, tangent has asymptotes
|
sin(2x), cos(x+π), tan−1(x)
|
|
Natural Logarithm (ln)
|
ln(x) curve increases slowly, never crosses the x-axis
|
ln(x2) = 2 ln(x)
|
|
Exponential (e)
|
ex curve rises rapidly, never touches the x-axis
|
eln(x) = x
|
Why It Matters: Being comfortable with these functions and their graphical representations is crucial for solving calculus problems involving limits, derivatives, and integrals. You’ll encounter these functions frequently, so mastering their manipulation and visualization will give you a significant advantage.
- SOH CAH TOA for Shadow Problems
| Acronym | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
SOH
|
Sine = Opposite/Hypotenuse
|
sin(θ) = opposite/hypotenuse
|
|
CAH
|
Cosine = Adjacent/Hypotenuse
|
cos(θ) = adjacent/hypotenuse
|
|
TOA
|
Tangent = Opposite/Adjacent
|
tan(θ) = opposite/adjacent |
Why It Matters: Shadow problems come up many times involving trigonometry in which you will be using these basic trigonometric ratios to determine measures of sides or angles of right triangles. Solving these problems can be tedious, but if you understand how SOHCAHTOA works and apply it properly, it will be helpful and aid in problem-solving in calculus, specifically with rates of change and max/min.
It will enable you to understand challenges that you are likely to come across when doing Calculus I (C958) because of the areas of focus that have been provided above. It is worth stressing that all these relatively basic concepts are not only vital for passing the course but will be fruitful in any future advanced mathematics course you may take.
...
WGU C958 FAQ❓
Q: How should I prepare for the Objective Assessment (OA)?
A: Follow the week-by-week study plan, complete the Pre-Assessment, and use external resources for extra practice.
Q: Do I need to complete the Precalculus review chapter?
A: It’s optional but recommended if you need a refresher on foundational math skills.
Q: Can I rely only on zyBooks for this course?
A: zyBooks is comprehensive, but external resources like YouTube channels and Quizlet can enhance your understanding.
Q: What calculator should I use?
A: The TI-30XS Multiview is recommended. Ensure your calculator meets the course requirements.
Q: How much time should I study each week?
A: Aim for 15 to 20 hours per week to stay on track with the course.
Q: What if I struggle with a topic?
A: Contact your instructor for help and use additional resources like practice quizzes and videos.
...
Conclusion📄
Understanding Calculus I (C958) at WGU might be lowering the morale of many students due to the perceived difficulty but believe me, it can be conquered. He should remember that results and practices laid out in the Study plan, usage of other sources, and the key concepts described above will cover the Objective Assessment. Finally, bear in mind that diligence and the use of any possible resource, including the teachers, tutors, or online aids, will greatly positively affect the result. Nevertheless, if you remain persistent and keep on being curious about the things in and around you, not only will you pass the course, but the fundamentals for your major in the future are already installed. Good luck!
