Activity Overview
In this activity, students use the Derive™ software to algebraically solve expressions, find factors, study binomial coefficients, and investigate derivatives and integrals.
Before the Activity
Install the Derive 6™ software on the computer
See the attached PDF file for detailed instructions for this activity Print the attached PDF file for the class
During the Activity
Distribute the pages to the class.
Follow the Activity procedures:
Algebraically solve quadratic expressions
Factor, expand, and solve expressions
Define a function and plot a graph
Investigate the expansion of (a + b)n
Explore patterns in the coefficients of the terms and predict terms for other expansions
Study Binomial coefficients and Pascal's triangle
Enter two functions, plot their graphs, and find the point(s) of intersection
Investigate derivatives for a polynomial power function from first principles
Investigate an integral function and calculate the area bound by its graph
Solve trigonometric equations for different domains
After the Activity
Review student results:
As a class, discuss questions that appeared to be more challenging
Re-teach concepts as necessary