<p>Alright guys, hopefully someone here can help me out. I'm currently enrolled as an English major, but am interested in switching to a science major requiring 3/5 series calculus. However, I am absolutely horrible at math - here's my high school math progression:</p>
<p>H Algebra
Geo
H Algebra II
AP Statistics</p>
<p>My Algebra II class basically skipped over the fourth quarter pre-calculus unit in favor of the optional statistics unit; I basically know zero calculus or pre-calculus material. </p>
<p>I looked over the Math 34 tests and found them extremely easy, but after taking a gander at the 3/5 series class problems, I was entirely confused. I don't even know how I'm suppose to pass Math 15.</p>
<p>Does this mean I should just stick to humanities, or a Math 34 based science major? If I take Math 34 and decide to take the 3/5 series, does that mean having to also take Math 15? It would be a bummer to get out there and end up with a bunch of D/C grades in math courses that I knew I couldn't handle.</p>
<p>well thats really up to you. If you want to be a science major you should do it. If your heart lies in the humanities go with that. I take it your a freshmen? If so you should change you still have time along with summer school and stuff.</p>
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Reminds me of an old saying – “whether you think you can or you can’t, you’re right” .</p>
<p>I’m not going to claim that math will be easy if you only change your attitude. However I will claim you can learn it if you put in the effort. A rule of thumb for science and math classes is that you need to be studying and doing homework for 3 hours outside of class for every hour in class. Maybe not every class or everyone, but its a good starting point. That means from day 1 of calculus you spend 9 hours a week studying. And not reading the chapter, but doing problems. There are books like the “Calculus Problem Solver” that have 1000’s of worked problems. You flip to the chapter about your current calculus chapter, cover the answers, and start working. After each problem check your work to see if you’re doing it right. Not easy or fun, but effective. Do this and you’ll find you’re no longer horrible at math.</p>
<p>Extremely good point - I ordered a pre-calculus review booklet, and I’ll study before I take the math placement test. Maybe I can teach myself some of the calculus material I missed out on before I get to UCSB.</p>