Introduction to the Derivative Function

PowerPoint lesson introducing the derivative through its limit definition, connecting it to tangent slope and instantaneous rate of change, with four fully worked examples of finding f'(x).
File type
Microsoft PowerPoint
Use
Digital activity

Updated Dec 26, 2022

Subject
Maths
Topic
Calculus, Introduction to Derivative Function
Resource types
Lesson Plans
Use
Digital activity

From the author

About this resource

PowerPoint presentation, 8 slides explaining to Understand the meaning of derivative function

In the classroom

Teaching tips & learning objectives

Learning objectives

  • Explain the derivative as the slope of a tangent line and an instantaneous rate of change

  • Find the derivative of polynomial and rational functions from the limit definition

Teaching tips

  • The fourth example relies on multiplying by a conjugate, so reviewing that algebra step first could help.

Skills covered

  • Differentiation from first principles — students follow the limit definition through four worked functions

  • Algebraic simplification — the examples expand, factor and use a conjugate to evaluate the limit

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Resource details

Concepts & topics

Core concepts

  • Derivative

  • Limit definition

  • Tangent slope

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