Math 190 is UBC's calculus survey course designed specifically for Forestry students. It provides a broad overview of both differential and integral calculus in a single term, with applications tailored to forestry, natural resources, and environmental sciences. Unlike the two-term calculus sequences (Math 100/101 or Math 104/105), Math 190 condenses the essential calculus concepts into one course, focusing on practical applications rather than theoretical depth. It's designed for students who need working knowledge of calculus for their field but don't require the full rigor of a math-intensive program.
What is covered in UBC Math 190?
Math 190 surveys calculus with applications to forestry and natural resources. Topics include:
- Functions and models: Exponential, logarithmic, and power functions in ecological and resource contexts
- Limits and continuity: Basic concepts and interpretations
- Derivatives: Definition, differentiation rules (power, product, quotient, chain rule)
- Applications of derivatives: Growth rates, optimization (e.g., sustainable harvest levels), and marginal analysis
- Integration: Antiderivatives, the definite integral, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus
- Integration techniques: Substitution and basic methods relevant to forestry applications
- Applications of integration: Area, total change, and cumulative growth in ecological models
- Differential equations: First-order equations including exponential growth, decay, and logistic models
- Functions of several variables: Partial derivatives and basic optimization with multiple variables
Math 190 is designed for Forestry students and provides the calculus foundation needed for upper-level forestry and natural resources courses.
Common challenges students face in Math 190
Fast pace covering two terms' worth of content
Math 190 compresses differential and integral calculus into one term. You're learning limits, derivatives, integrals, and differential equations all in quick succession—there's little time to fall behind.
Applications feel specific
Unlike general calculus courses, Math 190 focuses on forestry and ecological applications. If you're not familiar with forest growth models or resource management, the context can feel unfamiliar.
Integration is rushed
Since you're covering both derivatives and integrals in one term, integration techniques get less time than in Math 101 or Math 105. You need to learn integration patterns quickly.
Balancing breadth and depth
Math 190 prioritizes breadth (covering many topics) over depth (rigorous proofs). But you still need to understand concepts well enough to apply them in your forestry courses.
How Learn4Less helps you succeed in Math 190
Our tutors understand the unique demands of Math 190 and the applications to forestry and natural resources.
Efficient learning strategies
With so much content in one term, efficiency matters. We focus on the most important concepts and techniques, so you learn what you need without wasting time on tangents.
Contextual understanding
We explain calculus in the context of forestry: growth rates of trees, sustainable harvest levels, and ecological modeling. You'll see how calculus connects to your field.
Integration techniques
We teach you substitution and basic integration methods efficiently, so you can solve forestry-related integrals confidently.
Math 190 exam and midterm preparation
Math 190 typically has midterms and a final exam covering both differential and integral calculus. Here's how we prepare you:
Comprehensive review
Since Math 190 covers a lot of ground, we help you review all major topics systematically: derivatives, optimization, integration, and differential equations.
Practice with forestry applications
We focus on application problems relevant to forestry: growth models, resource optimization, and cumulative change.
Past exam practice
We work through previous years' exams so you know what problem types to expect and how to manage time effectively.
Why choose Learn4Less for Math 190 tutoring?
First-year specialization
We focus on UBC's first-year math courses, including Math 190. Our tutors understand the survey approach and the forestry applications.
Experience with UBC curricula
We know UBC's Math 190 syllabus, typical textbooks, and exam formats. We tailor our sessions to what UBC professors emphasize.
Flexible formats
Choose in-person tutoring near UBC or online sessions. Need help before a specific midterm? Book a targeted prep session. Want ongoing support? Weekly tutoring keeps you on track through the fast-paced course.
Video study packages
Prefer self-paced learning? Our video packages cover key Math 190 topics—perfect for reviewing before exams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Math 190 and Math 100/101?
Math 190 is a one-term survey course designed for Forestry students, covering both differential and integral calculus with forestry applications. Math 100/101 is a two-term sequence for physical sciences and engineering, with more depth and rigor. Math 190 is less intensive but still covers the essential calculus you need.
Can I take Math 190 instead of Math 100/101 for other programs?
Usually not. Math 190 is specifically designed for Forestry and is generally only accepted within that faculty. Check with your program advisor to confirm requirements.
Do I need high school calculus to take Math 190?
Some prior calculus exposure helps, but Math 190 is designed to be accessible to students with strong algebra and trigonometry skills. The pace is fast, but the course builds from the basics.
Is Math 190 easier than Math 100/101?
Math 190 is less rigorous and covers less theory, but the pace is faster because you're condensing two terms into one. It's differently challenging—less depth, but more breadth in less time.
When should I get a tutor for Math 190?
As soon as you feel behind or confused. With so much content packed into one term, falling behind makes catching up very difficult. Proactive tutoring helps you stay on top of the fast pace.