Activity Overview
Students approximate the gradient of a function using the Central Difference method and approximate area under a curve using a series of trapeziums.
Objectives
The aim of this activity is to introduce students to the concepts of gradient at a point and area bounded by a curve or curves. The methods used align to the VCE Methods curriculum.
Vocabulary
- Gradient at a point
- Approximation methods
- Central Difference
- Trapezoidal Rule
About the Lesson
In this activity students calculate the approximate gradient using the method known as 'central difference' method and approximate area using the trapezoidal rule.