Using the Derivative

 
 
 
Applications of the Derivative

Related Rate Examples (New)

Drills on using the Mean Value Theorem
Newton's Method

2006 Related Rate Projects (PowerPoint)

Download a TI-83 Program for
Newton's Method
(Requires GraphLink software)

 
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AP Calculus (BC) Topics

I.  Functions, Graphs and Limits

D.  Continuity as a property of functions.

  • Understanding continuity in terms of limits.
  • Geometric understanding of graphs of continuous functions (Intermediate Value Theorem and Extreme Value Theorem).
II. Derivatives

E.  Applications of derivatives.

  • Analysis of curves, including the notions of monotonicity and concavity.
  • Optimization, both absolute (global) and relative (local) extrema.
  • Modeling rates of change, including related rates problems.
  • Use of implicit differentiation to find the derivative of an inverse function.
  • Interpretation of the derivative as a rate of change in varied applied contexts, including velocity, speed, and acceleration.