Activity Overview
In this Computer Algebra System (CAS) activity, students use the statistical, graphical, and symbolic capabilities of the calculator to make it a powerful tool for investigating and developing mathematical concepts.
Before the Activity
Install TI Connect™ using the TI connectivity cableSee the attached PDF file for detailed instructions for this activity Print pages 1 - 21 from the attached PDF file for the class
During the Activity
Distribute the pages to the class.
Follow the Activity procedures:
Explore the numerous commands, features, and calculation capabilities of the calculator
Use the calculator to solve a system of equations by elimination method, substitution method, and matrix method
Find the inverse of a function
With the help of the statistical and graphical capabilities of the calculator, solve a given problem, and derive an equation that models the problem situation
Use the symbolic algebra capabilities to derive an equation that represents problem situations without using graphs
Enter the data for the problem situation and set up a scatter plot
Perform a quadratic regression
Explore other algebra-graph connection problems
Explore the summation commands
Use patterns to develop formulas for exponents, logarithms, rationalizing denominators, and factoring
Understand how parametric and trigonometric problems can be solved using the calculator
Develop the power rule from y = xn
Use the calculator to solve various problems that appeared on the AP Calculus exam
Determine where the derivative of a function is equal to zero
Find the derivative of a function and use the calculator to verify the result
Study the Chain Rule
After the Activity
Students' answer questions on the Activity sheet.
Review student results:
As a class, discuss questions that appeared to be more challenging
Re-teach concepts as necessary