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Investigating the Derivatives of Some Common Functions

Activity Overview

1.1 Introductory Differential Calculus

In this activity, students will investigate the derivatives of sine, cosine, natural log, and natural exponential functions by examining the symmetric difference quotient at many points. They develop the idea of the derivative as a function. They gather evidence toward some common derivative formulas. They also use numerical and graphical investigations to form conjectures.

Key Steps

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    Students will develop the idea of the derivative as a function.

  • Image

    Students will gather evidence toward some common derivative formulas.

  • Image

    Students will use numerical and graphical investigations to form conjectures.