As your students are preparing for the AP Precalculus Exam, there are several things students should "know cold." This includes the behavior of the parent functions, justifications for the growth patterns of each function type, log properties, and trig identities. When you actually write out all of these items, it can be a pretty extensive list! But identifying which items to include can be the hardest step.
This is why we have created the Calc Medic AP Precalculus Flash Cards, with all the must-know information students should have in their back pocket (not literally, of course!). We've broken the content down into 7 categories: Function Features, Properties and Identities, Polar Functions, Describing Growth in Functions, Trig Functions, Transformations, and Miscellaneous.
The flashcards are available in 2 formats:
Paper flashcards to be printed and cut out.
Digital flashcards available through the Calc Medic Review Course. These are easily accessible to students on their phones and they can "flip" the cards, just as they would with the paper ones.
Suggestions for Printing
We suggest using a light cardstock rather that printer paper.
If making a classroom set, get them laminated if you can! This way you'll be able to use them for years to come.
Don't waste your own time cutting these out. Have students do it!
Download the Flashcards
Note that the file is formatted for two-sided printing.
Why Use Flashcards?
Flashcards are a tried-and-true study method for recalling facts. Practicing active retrieval of previously learned information strengthens neural connections in the brain. The metacognitive process of posing a question, searching through brain files for an appropriate response, and then reflecting on that response by essentially grading one's own work deepens memory. The principle of spaced practice can also be applied here as students revisit the cards after certain time intervals, more frequently with cards they struggle with and less frequently for cards they know confidently.