precalculus

[pree-kal-kyuh-luhs]

adjective

1. pertaining to the mathematical prerequisites for the study of calculus, as algebra, analytical geometry, and trigonometry.

noun

1. the course of study leading to calculus.

Word History and Origins

Origin of precalculus¹

First recorded in 1960–65; pre- + calculus

Example Sentences

Declining student preparation appears widespread at the state’s universities: About half of UC campus math chairs say that the “number of first-year students that are unable to start in college-level precalculus”—which used to be a standard course for California’s top high school sophomores—doubled over the last five years.

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As the working group begins its review, “the University will still recognize the existing advanced math courses approved to fulfill the subject requirement, including precalculus, calculus, linear algebra, trigonometry, statistics, discrete math, and courses in data science, for this year’s applicants to the University.”

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He attended Gaspar De Portola Middle School’s highly gifted magnet and is the only Chaminade freshman taking precalculus math.

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The middle school I attended has three eighth-graders taking precalculus, a math class typically taken in high school; none of them were offered admission.

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Jeff Johnston, a culture and policy analyst at the conservative evangelical Focus on the Family, said math conferences and workshops increasingly promote texts like Blitzer’s Precalculus textbook, which includes teachings on racial bias and ethnic diversity.

Read more on Washington Times