Real-World Calculus Teacher Resources

Students define the different methods used for optimizing a particular element of a problem. For this optimization problem lesson, students optimize appropriate details of a problem using data collection, algebra, technology, and/or...

In this calculus worksheet, students problem solve 8 word problems involving rates of change in association with high school students. Students work out each problem and give a short explanation of each answer.

Students relate algebra to real life scenario. In this algebra instructional activity, students design a plan to help traffic flow smoothly using velocity and speed. This assignment is done using Microsoft Excel.

Twelfth graders examine multiple aspects of statistics. In this mathematical reasoning lesson, 12th graders solve problems on probability, logarithms, exponential relationships and transforming rectilinear shapes. This resource contains...

Students explore a linear, a parabolic, and a log function.  In this Algebra II/Pre-calculus lesson students investigate the graph a line, a parabola, and a log function.  Students examine the three graphs as they compare and contrast...

Students collect data for a bouncing ball and select one bounce to analyze. They explore the relationship between velocity, position and acceleration. They seek out connections between the graphs and the physical motion of the ball.

Here is a set of lessons that explore conics in a number of different ways. Starting with modeling how a conic is produced by the way a plane cuts the cone, to solving complex word problems, algebra learners progress through a series of...

Get moving to a better understanding of graphs of derivatives. Using motion sensors, scholars vary their velocities to create graphs of the first derivative of a function. The activity challenges groups to first create a script of the...

More people, more garbage! Young environmentalists graph population growth against the amount of garbage generated per year and find a linear model that best fits the data. This is an older resource that could benefit from more recent...

Students investigate poverty using graphs. In this algebra lesson, students collect data on the effects of poverty and use different rules to analyze the data. They graph and use the trapezoid rule to interpret the data.

Fifth graders use the Internet to learn about translations, reflections and rotations. Students access the Transmographer program on the Internet, where they practice what they have learned. Students also complete a worksheet.

Learners match a given velocity graph and sketch the corresponding position graph using a graphing calculator. After collecting data from their everyday life, students use specific functions on their calculators to create graphs and...

Students study waves and their characteristics.  In this wave lesson students calculate the speed of waves, wavelength and the period. 

Pupils calculate the speed, motion and distance of a projectile. In this geometry instructional activity, students obtain measurements while calculating velocity. They graph their results and make predictions.

Young scholars analyze graphs for specific properties. In this algebra lesson, students solve equations and graph using the TI calculator. They find the different changes that occur in each graph,including maximum and minimum.

Tenth graders have been introduced to the concepts of translation, reflection, and rotation, and have practiced translating, reflecting, and rotating two-dimensional objects on the coordinate plane.

Students explore the concept of mathematical models. In this mathematical model lesson, students create a mathematical model from data from 4 cities over 15 months. Students are told they are working for a weather station. Students...

Students explore the concept of fractals. For this fractal lesson, students use applets to explore Koch's Snowflake, Sierpinski's Triangle, and other fractals. Students develop these concepts through exploration and teacher guided...